Dental implants in San José

What is an implant?

An implant is a small screw, usually titanium, placed in the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once the bone heals around it, a crown is fitted on top that looks and works like a tooth.

Who does what?

• The surgery to place the implant is done by a specialist who works at the office.
• The doctor examines your case, coordinates the surgery with the specialist and makes the crown on the implant.

When is it recommended?

• You are missing one or more teeth.
• You prefer a fixed option instead of a removable denture.
• You have enough bone to support the implant. The specialist checks this with X-rays.

If an implant is not a good option for you, the doctor will explain others, such as dentures.

What is the process?

1. An assessment with the doctor, with X-rays.
2. The specialist places the implant at the office, under local anesthetic.
3. You wait while the bone heals around the implant.
4. The doctor takes an impression or a digital scan.
5. The doctor fits the crown on the implant and adjusts your bite.

How long does it take?

The whole process usually takes several months, because the bone needs time to bond with the implant. The doctor will tell you what to expect in your case.

Does it hurt?

The surgery is done under local anesthetic. Some soreness and swelling for a few days afterward is normal. The specialist will tell you what to take and how to care for the area.

Aftercare

• Brush the implant crown like any other tooth and floss every day.
• Come in for a cleaning every 6 months so the implant and gum can be checked.
• If you smoke, talk to the doctor about it: tobacco slows healing.

Price

The doctor's fees follow the minimum fee schedule of the Colegio de Cirujanos Dentistas de Costa Rica, the national dental board (published January 2025). These are the minimum fees for this treatment, in Costa Rican colones:

• Implant placement surgery (done by the specialist): ₡457,000
• Second-stage surgery, if needed: ₡39,000
• Zirconia or porcelain crown on an implant: ₡427,000 to ₡473,000
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal crown on an implant: ₡444,000 to ₡507,000
• Temporary crown on an implant: ₡147,000

The final price depends on your case, and the doctor confirms it after examining you. You can pay in cash, by card or with SINPE Móvil.