A case of dental tourism (happy customer's story)
I am a SW florida resident with aspirations of moving to Panama. I also had a very bad problem with my 60 year old teeth -- both esthetically [they looked horrible] and functionally. These problems most likely resulted from a severe case of dental phobia which resulted in a 12 year absence from dental offices. I finally decided to "look into" having my teeth corrected with crowns. A visit to a Florida dentist shocked me with a quote that exceeded the annual income of most Floridians! This was NOT going to happen!However while speaking with my Panama financial adviser [that's another story ] I inquired as to the possibility of being directed to a Panama dentist.
I was given the name of a dentist who was a specialist in the type of work that I thought needed to be done and came with a HIGH reccomendation , This was Dr. Waldo Avila of Integra Dental Group.
After many back and forth E mails, including digital photos of my teeth [ Dr Avila wasn't scared away] an appointment was scheduled and I was on my way to Panama City.
I arrived at Dr. Avila's office early Monday morning.When I left at 3 PM I had a mouthfull of temporary crowns.This made for some interesting eating experiences but I got by. What a session--not at all painful but tiring and stress ful because I was constantly expecting the worst! On wednesday afternoon my 19 new crowns were put in place.
The coloration and shape [which had been discussed with Dr. Avila in detail] were perfect. Two 20 minute adjustment sessions on Thursday and Friday and I was on my way back to Florida. The cost of the entire procedure was 1/3 the cost of the Florida quote! This includes the $1000 cost of the trip to Panama.
My "new" teeth are getting rave reviews here in Florida and please me immensly.
Dr. Avila is a great guy and a wonderful gentle and very accomplished dentist. I would highly reccomend him to anyone contemplating significant dental work.
He can be reached at :
Dr. Waldo Avila,
Integra Dental Group
Via Israel accros from Multi-Plaza Mall, next to National Car Rental
[507] 265-5836
E mail Wavila@cableonda.net
John B Todd, jbt24@comcast.net
