www.CostaRicaTicas.com

I figure its a good excuse to get out of the country so in about a month I'll be heading down. Here is the question....

I have done the search and found great info. How far in advance do I need to schedule an appointment? And doing so, do most of the receptionist speak good english? What are the best times to go? IE least busy. All I need is a filling replaced and possibly a cavity filled and a good cleaning. I'll be back in SJ for 2 month in July and August for language school and a little more work. (anyone with leads on apt. furnished in san pedro(dent, yoses or area) drop me a pm!!!!!!!!) I dont worry about going to a dentist there as mine charged me $282 for an extraction!! So, those who have been to the dentist let me know the ropes on getting in and getting the work done. Thanks in advance!!

DTA wrote:



I believe that there is no one answer to that question. Procedures for each Dentist will vary just as they would between Dentists in the US.

I can give you my experience with the Dentist I use Dr. Sergio Chen, 222-0063/233-2703 email schepu@racsa.co.cr

He speaks English his receptionist do not. No need to call for an appointment until you get to CR and then someone from the language school can assist you. Dr. Chen is extremely busy and there is no one time is better. His prices are dirt cheap even for CR, his work good so his office is crowded. If you are a impatient person get another dentist if not bring a book and be prepared for a wait maybe as long as an hour but usually about half that time.

_________________
Pura Vida
Only Irish coffee provides in a single glass all four
essential food groups:
alcohol, caffeine, sugar and fat.
Alex Levine

My opinion, the best Dentist in CR is Dra Telma Rubinstein, and her husband Dr Josef Cordero. They are located in Rohrmoser. 506-291-5151

SEAHAWK

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DO WHAT YOU LOVE AND LOVE WHAT YOU DO

Everyone has a favorite. For anyone who is seriously considering Dr's Rubinstein/Cordero I would suggest they join the Yahoo group Costa Rica Living and check out the opinion of many posters there who tried them.

Needless to say they are not getting much new or repeat business from members of that group.

I have no personal knowledge of their operation or skills.As always YMMV.

_________________
Pura Vida
Only Irish coffee provides in a single glass all four
essential food groups:
alcohol, caffeine, sugar and fat.
Alex Levine

Dra Yalilé Sauma has many CRT members as happy and satisfied patients.
She is located in Centro Comercial del Sur and her telephone is
(506) 227-1835.
In addition to being a fine dentist, she and her brother are great people.

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NON ILLEGITIMI CARBORUNDUM

DG

Is that email for the dentist? Also, where is Sergio Chen located?

I am doing this prior to the language school trip, I'd wait but dont think I should. It would just get worse.

I am going to be in SJ from a Mon-through Mon. to maximize the chance of been seen at an office. Thanks for the responses and keep any info coming.

Yes that is Dr Chen's email address. He is very conveniently located at Calle 6, Avenida 4 y 6. Close to the old Park Hotel. Unfortunately can not stop in there for a drink and a quicky after him working on my teeth anymore.

_________________
Pura Vida
Only Irish coffee provides in a single glass all four
essential food groups:
alcohol, caffeine, sugar and fat.
Alex Levine

Funny I too go to Dr. Chen and echo ID's endorsement, as well as his comment that Dr. Chen is busy so you have to work on his schedule.

His office is older than some, as well, so you're not going to see all the equipment you're probably used to in your US dentist's office. He's an old craftsman and I trust him, but I know gringos who would feel like they were in a time machine and sitting in a 1960's dentist office and it would freak em out.

Bookie wrote:



A Little background on the Chen Dental clinic might be in order. Dr. Chen's grandfather came to CR to work on the construction of the Limon rail line. His son became a dentist and opened a clinic in San Jose approximately 100 meters south of the present location over 75 years ago.

Dr. Chen and his brother followed their dad in becoming dentist and kept the practice going. While the clinic is older they practice strict modern day sterilization procedures. They are able to keep costs low and service quick because on the second floor of the clinic is a complete laboratory. This means nothing has to be sent to an outside lab where they have no control over quality, prices or time.

For guys looking for a downside here it is.................his wife is a gringa

_________________
Pura Vida
Only Irish coffee provides in a single glass all four
essential food groups:
alcohol, caffeine, sugar and fat.
Alex Levine

Thanks ID I didn't realize his pracrtice had such deep roots...it totally clicks though with my sense of his commitment to it.

What about teeth whitening procedures; do these dentists have anything compared to what the US dentists are now offering? This costs in the range of $ 500 in the US.

_________________
"An intellectual is someone who has found something more interesting than sex." – Edgar Wallace (English author) - then I must be a complete moron.

They're very big on cosmetic dentistry. I'm sure the one Don Gordo lists would have a price for that. Call and find out and let us know.

I've been seeing Dr. Montealegre. He has an office in the central of SJ and in Sabana Sur. I've had everything from fillings, crowns, a bridge, and just last week, a root canal. The root canal was $115. I don't have a breakdown of the other procedures as it was a package deal. I am very pleased with him. His staff doesn't speak English, but he does and will answer the phone when an English speaker is on the phone. If you're interested, PM me and I'll give you email, website, and phone number.

I want to thank Irish Drifter for the information on Dr. Chen. I am now a patient of Dr. Chen who I would describe as a consumate professional in a land of snake oil salesmen. The post has made a lifelong dream a reality. Quality care at the lowest possible price.

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johnorlando

I went to a dentist whose office is located just north of the San Pedro Mall near where you are going to school. I believe he went to Tufts (which has the best dental school in the US). Probably not the cheapest dentist in town but still much cheaper than any in the US and I had no problem making a next day appointment and very little wait once I got there. It was also very convenient to where I was located since I could walk there from class. I'll have to look up the name, just let me know if you're interested.