Lumineers in Costa Rica

Having a perfect set of teeth is not a distant dream anymore.

Thanks to affordable lumineers in Costa Rica, that saves your hard-earned money.

Video Courtesy: 3d Animations – Zahnveneers

It is one of the top dental destinations in Latin America.^[1]Tourism Review
Dental Tourism is Fluorishing in Costa Rica
“Recent reports show that Costa Rica has rapidly grown in its popularity… ”
View in Article

Want to know how Costa Rica offers quality dental work at a low cost?

Read ahead to find out more!

What are Lumineers?

Lumineers are ultra-thin porcelain veneers customized to fit each tooth of the patient.^[2]academia.edu
Lumineers- New Era of Restorative Dentistry
“Lumineers are thin porcelain material, custom made for the patient… ”
View in Article

They are only 0.3 mm in contrast to 1.5mm thick regular veneers.^[3]JAMDSR
Lumineers Veneers – A Clinical Case Study
“Traditional porcelain veneer (1.5mm) is thicker than Lumineers (0.3mm) ”
View in Article

They provide a permanent cosmetic solution to stained or damaged teeth.^[4]JAMDSR
Lumineers Veneers – A Clinical Case Study
“They function as a permanent solution for stained and discolored teeth. ”
View in Article

Lumineers

Set of 6 Lumineers

Lumineers

Lumineers for Esthetic Smile

Lumineer is a registered brand of Den-Mat Holdings LLC.^[5]Trademark Elite
LUMINEERS United Kingdom Trademark Information
“Trademark Owner: Den-Mat Holdings, LLC ”
View in Article

But how much do these veneers cost? Are they affordable in Costa Rica? Let’s scroll down & see!

Cost of Lumineers in Costa Rica

The price of lumineers in Costa Rica varies from $425 to $600.

On the other hand, the same procedure might charge you $1,000 in the US & $1,400 in Canada.

Similarly, the lumineers cost in Australia & New Zealand may be around $1,300 & $2,050, respectively.

Thus, creating a huge gap between dental veneers price in Costa Rica & at home.

From the table below, you can clearly conclude that veneers in Costa Rica save you nearly 65%. Isn’t that a huge amount to retain? 😲

Cost of Lumineers in Costa Rica Vs. Other Countries

Country	Cost (Per Unit)
Costa Rica	$425 – $ 600
United States	$800 – $2,000
Canada	$800 – $2,000
United Kingdom	$900 – $1,200
Australia	$1,500 – $2,500
New Zealand	$1,850 – $2,250

*Prices may vary as per the case complexity.

Note: Not every partner clinic in Costa Rica uses Lumineer brand. But they do use a similar technique.

They fabricate their own veneers in in-house labs & customize it for each case. They call them Smile Veneers or First Fit Veneers.

Lumineers might be overpriced in your land, but they are economical in Costa Rica.

So, request a FREE quote and return back home with a dazzling smile.

Why are Lumineers Cheaper in Costa Rica?

There are myriad reasons owing to the cheaper lumineers or porcelain veneers in Costa Rica.

The living cost here is around 37% low than in most American states.^[6]Expatistan
Cost of living in Costa Rica compared to United States
“Cost of living in Costa Rica is 37% cheaper than in United States. ”
View in Article

Besides, you get first-class healthcare facilities at 1/3rd of the US cost.^[7]CNBC
Dental tourism in Latin America…
“The country’s public and private health… being upgraded…costs are low in comparison to those in the U.S., regularly coming in at about a third… ”
View in Article

Moreover, short flights of ~4 hrs 32 mins from the US make it easily accessible.

Also, you save substantially^[9]CRC Daily
How has Costa Rica’s medical tourism industry been impacted by Covid?
“Costa Rica has the advantages of being close to the United States…the savings are substantial… ”
View in Article by boarding popular airlines for ~ $144.^[8]Skyscanner
Cheap flights from United States to Costa Rica
“Average flight time: 4 hrs, 32 mins…Cheapest flight found: $144… ”
View in Article

Costa Rica

Costa Rica: Easy to Reach

High-Quality Treatment

Quality Lumineers in Costa Rica

Do you still want to know why Costa Rica is in demand? It’s because of:

High-rated dentistry | Quality treatment 👌
Geographical Proximity | Short plane ride away ✈️
All-inclusive packages | Pick up/drop-off & stay 🚕
Captivating landscapes | Charming tourist spot 🏖️
Affordable dental care | Budget-friendly for uninsured 💰

Captivating View in Costa Rica

Porcelain veneers fall in elective cosmetic procedures, so insurance companies do not provide cover for them.

Therefore, millions of Americans reach Costa Rica in search of affordable dentistry abroad.^[10]Tico Times
1 million people visited Costa Rica in 2020
“Costa Rica welcomed just over 1 million international arrivals in 2020, according to data shared by the Tourism Board (ICT). ”
View in Article

You can visit San Jose, Liberia, Jaco, or Playa Del Coco to have a wonderful dental experience.

3 Step Procedure for Lumineers in Costa Rica

Getting Lumineers is a painless and minimally invasive procedure.

Visit 1

Diagnosis | Treatment Plan

Predesigning a Smile

Pictures to Predesign a Smile

A dentist analyzes their patient’s needs, oral status, color & smile line.

Then, they share a proper treatment plan. For this, they may require:

Photographs
Radiographs
Teeth Models

Visit 2

Preparation | Impression

Depending on the case, Lumineers might not always demand trimming of tooth surfaces. 2 methods include:

Teeth Impressions

I. No-Prep Technique:

No reduction of tooth structure
Veneer thickness is 0.2-0.7 mm

II. Minimal Preparation:

0.3-0.5 mm tooth reduction is done
Usually indicated in misaligned teeth

👉 Good News: Anesthesia is not needed in any of the techniques.

Teeth impressions are taken to make models. The lab uses them to make custom Lumineers.

Visit 3

Cementation | Bonding

Firstly, the clinician cleans the tooth surface with a polishing paste.

Then, they bond the lumineers to front teeth in a sequence: central incisors > canines > lateral incisors.

Lastly, the dentist removes extra cement using floss & completes it by final curing (for a few secs).

Note: Usually, it takes 3 visits to complete. However, Lumineers can also be done in just 2 visits by combining 1st & the 2nd sitting.

Source: IOSR Journal^[11]IOSR Journal
Lumineers- New Era of Restorative Dentistry
“Usually three visits are required for no-preparation…checked for smoothness using dental floss. ”
View in Article

Lumineer is a very simple procedure. So, are you curious to know whether you are a good candidate for it or not? Let’s check it out!

When Do You Need Lumineers?

Lumineers are contact lens-thin shells that best reproduce a brighter smile.^[12]PubMed Central
Minimally Invasive Laminate Veneers
“In this context, ceramic laminate veneers, also known as “contact lens,”… ”
View in Article They are recommended in:^[13]PubMed Central
Minimally Invasive Laminate Veneers
“One of patients’ greatest desires when seeking dental treatment is the aesthetic transformation…size, and color of the teeth… ”
View in Article

Indications

Badly shaped teeth
Unnatural bridge/crown
Mild gaps between teeth
Stained/discolored teeth
Minor tooth cracks

Lumineers are advertised as the answer to most esthetic needs. But they might not be suitable for everyone. For instance,^[14]moh.gov.sa
Lumineer
“”They only solve some minor dental problems, and their use is not recommended in the following cases: Massive damage of the enamel layer…” ”
View in Article

Contraindications

Loose teeth
Large teeth gaps
Night grinding, nail-biting
Damaged outer tooth layer(enamel)

When do You Need Veneers/Lumineers?

Lumineers Vs. Veneers

You might have heard of veneers. But do you know how are they different from Lumineers?^[15]Very Well Health
What’s the Difference Between Veneers and Lumineers?
“Veneers generally protect against discoloration a little better, and Lumineers may not be able to correct certain cases… ”
View in Article See the table below:👇

Lumineers	Veneers
Ultrathin: 0.3 mm thick	Relatively thicker: upto 1.5mm
Are potentially reversible	Bond permanently to teeth
Need less time & visits	Takes more time & visits
Less/no trimming	Slight trimming done
Demand extra care to stay longer	Last longer for ~ 15 years
More translucent, more natural & comfortable	Less translucent & natural
Pain-free, so no anesthesia is needed	Might require anesthesia to avoid sensitivity
Cannot be used in severe discoloration	Masks severe discoloration better
Less visits might incur less expenses	More visits might incur more expenses

Advantages of Lumineers

Lumineers are popular as cosmetic coatings among international patients. They offer the following benefits:^[16]IOSR Journal
Lumineers- New Era of Restorative Dentistry
“Advantages: 1. Painless 2. Lack of need for anesthesia… ”
View in Article

Painless | No need to numb ✅
2 sittings | Quick to apply & remove ✅
Great color stability | Excellent esthetics ✅
Minimal or no tooth scratching | No sensitivity ✅
Need no temporary cover | High patient acceptance ✅

Disadvantages of Lumineers

Though more beneficial, Lumineers have a very few drawbacks such as:^[17]IOSR Journal
Lumineers- New Era of Restorative Dentistry
“Disadvantages: 1. Bulky appearance…Difficult to mask severe staining… ”
View in Article

Adds to thickness | Might look bulky ❎
Ultra-thin | Can’t mask severe staining ❎
Overcountouring | Periodontal problems ❎
Not appropriate for all cosmetic problems | Limited use ❎

Aftercare of Lumineers

To improve the longevity of lumineers, adopt good oral practices including:^[18]Very Well Health
Everything You Need to Know Before Getting Veneers
“Soon after your procedure, your dentist may recommend that you temporarily stop drinking red wine or coffee…”
View in Article

Immediate Post-Op Care

Do not eat or drink dark-colored items
Don’t take too hot/cold eatables to avoid any sensitivity

Routine Care after Lumineers

Brush & floss regularly
Avoid grinding of teeth (wear a nightguard)
Refrain from chewing hard & sticky candies
Do not bite on a pen, pencil, or any hard objects
Do not miss your dental visits for follow-ups & cleanings
Reduce the consumption of dark-stained food or liquids (tea, coffee, red wine)

Is Costa Rica a Safe Country for Dental Tourism?

Yes. Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Latin America.^[19]International Citizens
Is Costa Rica Safe for Expats & Travelers?
“The U.S. State Department ranks Costa Rica as a “level 1” country which is the safest level”
View in Article

Americans and Canadians call it a retirement destination for its healthcare & tourism.^[20]Smart Asset
How to Retire in Costa Rica…
“Retiring in a foreign country like Costa Rica offers Americans an opportunity for the good life at a cheaper price. ”
View in Article

With the lowest poverty rates in Latin America, its steady growth & open policies make it a global leader.^[21]World Bank
The World Bank In Costa Rica
“This growth resulted from an outward-oriented strategy, based on the openness…The combination of political stability…lowest poverty rates in Latin America ”
View in Article

Safety Aspects As a Tourist

Costa Rica is Safe for Dental Trip

Facts to Know!

Costa Rica is one of the best Green Countries in the World.^[22]World Bank
The World Bank In Costa Rica
“Costa Rica is… environmental…its Green Trademark. ”
View in Article
In 2021, 64% of foreign visitors were from the States.^[23]state.gov.
U.S. Relations…
“During 2021, 64%…visitors were from the US.”
View in Article
Over 1.3 million US citizens entered Costa Rica annually in the past few years.^[24]state.gov.
U.S. Relations…
“Costa Rica is…over 1.3 million U.S. visited.”
View in Article

Costa Rica is at a “level 1” country, the safest level credited by the U.S. State Dept.^[18]International Citizens
Is Costa Rica Safe for Expats & Travelers?
“The U.S. State Department ranks Costa Rica as a “level 1” country.”
View in Article

But, security concerns are obvious as you plan your travel.

We hope the following points will help you plan your trip well.^[25]International Citizens
Is Costa Rica Safe for Expats & Travelers?
“Store your travel documents, passports, and valuables in a safe place…”
View in Article

Avoid traveling solo after dark
Hold your passports and cash close at hand
Keep an eye while withdrawing money from ATMs
Have your hotel’s & country’s embassy numbers handy
Homicides are not common, though petty crimes may follow
Exercise precautions in some Costa Rican provinces (Limon, Liberia city, San Rafael, the Pavas, & hospital areas in San Jose)

Crime can happen anywhere in the world. So, be extra vigilant as a traveler.

Safety Aspects As a Dental Patient

Now, we will tell you what our top-rated partner clinics in Costa Rica have for you.

Proper sterilization (autoclave)
Friendly & English-speaking staff
Safe financing options: Cash, credit/debit cards, bank transfer, PayPal
Free pick up/drop off facility & hotel arrangements with amenities @ special price
High-end technology: CEREC Primescan, MC Xl & Speedfire Oven, Microscope, Scanora 3D imaging

Scanora 3D Imaging

CAD-CAM Technology

Travel Tips for Costa Rica

Costa Rica ranks #14 in the best places to travel in 2023 as per U.S. News.^[26]travel.usnews
Why Go To Costa Rica?
“The U.S. News & World Report travel…#14 in Best Places to Visit in January 2023 ”
View in Article

If it’s not on your bucket list, add it now. Click below to read helpful travel tips:^[27]travel.state.gov
Costa Rica
“Requirements for Entry: Passport valid for duration of stay…at least $100 USD per month… ”
View in Article

Entry Requirements

Carry a passport valid for duration of stay
No visa is required for a stay of less than 90 days
Return ticket or proof of next country travel
Proof of funds – atleast $100/ month (till stay)
Bring copy of identification and immigration status

Note: Dial 911 for emergency services in Costa Rica.

How to Reach?

The best mode to reach Costa Rica is by plane. Most travelers fly into:^[28]USA Today
How to Travel to Costa Rica
“Most travelers fly into the international Aeropuerto Juan Santamaria, located just 10 miles from San Jose… ”
View in Article

International Aeropuerto Juan Santamaria (10 miles from San Jose)
Daniel Oduber Airport (in the northern town of Liberia).

Direct routes from the US cities are:^[29]Vacations Costa Rica
Flights to Costa Rica: The Ultimate Guide
“See below the current direct routes into Costa Rica…Chicago, IL (ORD): Once a week (Saturdays) to San Jose (SJO)… ”
View in Article

Chicago, IL (ORD) to San Jose (SJO)
Denver, CO (DEN) to San Jose (SJO)
Houston, TX (HOU) to Guanacaste (LIR)
Los Angeles (LAX) to San Jose (SJO) & Guanacaste (LIR)
Newark, NJ (EWR) to San Jose (SJO) & Guanacaste (LIR)

Flight Map, Costa Rica

Airlines with Direct Flights: Jet Blue, Air Canada, Delta Airlines, American Airlines

Transport in Costa Rica

If you are going to/from Juan Santamaría Airport (SJO), you can either rent a car or book local transport.

Rental Cars	Private Transport
Europcar Avis Rent a Car Budget Rent a Car Economy Rent a Car	Uber Red Taxi SJO Shuttle Super Shuttle Costa Rica Shuttle

Currency Exchange

Colon is the Costa Rica’s official currency. Nevertheless, U.S. dollars are widely accepted in here.

You can go to currency exchange booths in the San Jose Airport, but the best way is to use the ATMs for local currency.

Useful Tip: Bring dollars for local shopping & get colons as a balance.^[30]Vacations Costa Rica
Costa Rica Travel Tips – FAQs Answered
“Costa Rica’s official currency is the Colón… ”
View in Article

5 Things To Do

Spend leisure time in this tiny tropical paradise of Central America.^[31]travel.usnews
Free Things To Do in Costa Rica
“The Nicoya Peninsula’s sparkling…funky bamboo bars… ”
View in Article

Guanacaste – Sightseeing gold coast
Jaco – Beachside retreat, foggy rainforests
Nicoya Peninsula – Beaches, recreational tours
San Jose – Vibrant capital with cultural attractions
Poerto Viejo De Talamanca – Funky bamboo bars, Caribbean cuisines

Wildlife in Costa Rica

Beach in Costa Rica

Not to miss eating!

Exotic fruits – Pejibayes, mamon chino
Fresh fish, black beans and rice, coffee

Reviews: Lumineers in Costa Rica

The clinic was up to date, clean & the staff was bilingual and professional. The cost was a fraction of what I would’ve spent here in the US.

Madeleine Pluhar, US

The dentists and their staff are very professional and extremely kind. I regained my confidence with a beautiful bright smile again.

Carmela Giamp, Canada

FAQs: Lumineers in Costa Rica

How much does a full set of Lumineers cost in Costa Rica?

Dental veneers price in Costa Rica, especially for Lumineers, ranges from $425 – $600 per unit.

Patients usually request 6 to 8 veneers for smile symmetry, thus multiplying the cost to ~ $2,550 – $3,400.

Similarly, a full mouth restoration in Costa Rica with 12 Lumineers can cost nearly $5,100.

You can compare the prices of different sets of Lumineers in the table below:

Lumineers	Costa Rica	US	Canada
Per unit	$425	$1,000	$1,400
Set of 6 per arch	$2,550	$6,000	$8,400
Set of 8 per arch	$3,400	$8,000	$11,200
Set of 12 per arch	$5,100	$12,000	$16,800