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Dental Veneers in Panama: Complete Cost Guide, Quality Standards, and Treatment Process
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Dental veneers in Panama cost $400–$700 per tooth, which is 60–72% less than US prices, with clinics in Panama City using IPS e.max and Procera ceramics backed by two JCI-accredited hospitals and Johns Hopkins Medicine International oversight.
Panama City’s top dental clinics, registered with MINSA and the Technical Health Council, offer porcelain veneers at $400–$700 per tooth versus $800–$3,000 in the US. An 8-veneer makeover costs about $4,400 in Panama, saving patients roughly $10,400 compared to domestic US treatment.
Medical Tourism Packages connects patients with verified clinics in Panama City’s Punta Pacifica and Marbella districts, including Pacific Dental Clinic (inside JCI-accredited Hospital Punta Pacifica), Clinica Ford Dental Spa, and Clinica Arango Orillac. Each clinic is confirmed for ADA or AACD credentials, IPS e.max or Procera ceramic systems, and written warranty terms. Below, you will find cost comparisons, clinic profiles, step-by-step procedure details, a travel planning guide, and answers to frequently asked questions about getting dental veneers in Panama.
What Are Dental Veneers and Why Choose Panama?
Dental veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite material bonded to the front surface of teeth. They correct discoloration, chips, gaps, and minor misalignment. Panama City combines 60–72% cost savings with JCI-accredited hospitals, English-speaking dentists, and a US dollar economy that eliminates exchange rate risk.
Panama is one of the few dental tourism destinations where patients pay in US dollars. No currency conversion is needed. About 90% of private-sector specialists in Panama City trained in the United States, and the country uses the same premium ceramic brands found in American clinics. Our complete guide for American medical tourists in Panama covers hospitals, visa requirements, and travel logistics in detail.
What Types of Dental Veneers Are Available in Panama?
Panama City dental clinics offer three main veneer types: porcelain, composite resin, and Lumineers. Top clinics use premium materials including IPS e.max (lithium disilicate), Procera, Lava, and Cercon for porcelain cases. Each type suits different budgets and timelines.
| Veneer Type | Lifespan | Key Benefits | Process |
|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain (IPS e.max / Procera) | 10–15 years | Superior stain resistance, natural appearance | Lab fabrication, 2–3 visits, 7–10 days |
| Composite Resin | 4–8 years | Budget-friendly, same-day completion | Direct chair-side application |
| Lumineers | 10–15 years | Ultra-thin, minimal prep, often reversible | Specialized ceramic, 2 visits |
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Veneers?
Most adults with healthy teeth and gums qualify for dental veneers. Veneers are classified as cosmetic procedures. Most dental insurance plans in the US and Canada do not cover them, so patients should expect to self-pay for treatment in Panama or at home.
Candidacy requirements include:
- Overall oral health meeting minimum standards (no active decay or gum disease)
- Sufficient tooth enamel for bonding procedures
- Realistic expectations about treatment outcomes
- Commitment to proper aftercare protocols
- Custom night guard for patients with bruxism (teeth grinding)
How Much Do Dental Veneers Cost in Panama?
Dental veneers in Panama City cost $400–$700 per tooth for porcelain, which is 60–72% less than US prices of $800–$3,000 per tooth. Composite veneers average $250–$450 per tooth. Panama uses the US dollar, so there is no currency exchange risk for North American patients.
Critical geographic warning: Online searches can confuse Panama City, Florida (where veneers cost $1,200–$2,500 per tooth) with Panama City, Panama. Always verify that any clinic you contact is located in the Republic of Panama in Central America.
How Do Panama Veneer Prices Compare to the US and Canada?
Panama veneer prices compare at 60–75% less than US costs and 55–70% less than Canadian costs. The US national average for a single porcelain veneer is $1,477–$1,765 per tooth in 2026. Canadian patients in Toronto and Montreal pay $925–$2,500 per tooth for porcelain.
| Country | Porcelain (per tooth) | Composite (per tooth) | Savings vs Panama |
|---|---|---|---|
| Panama | $400–$700 | $250–$450 | Baseline |
| USA | $800–$3,000 (avg $1,477–$1,765) | $250–$1,500 | 60–75% more expensive |
| Canada | $925–$2,500 | $226–$1,087 | 55–70% more expensive |
| United Kingdom | $1,200–$2,000 | $500–$1,000 | 60–65% more expensive |
What Does a Full Smile Makeover Cost in Panama?
A full smile makeover with 8 porcelain veneers costs approximately $4,400 in Panama City versus $14,800 in the United States, saving patients roughly $10,400. When you add airfare and accommodation, most North American patients still save over $8,000 compared to getting the same work done at home.
| Expense Category | Panama Cost | US Cost | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 Porcelain Veneers | $4,400 (avg $550/tooth) | $14,800 (avg $1,850/tooth) | $10,400 |
| Initial consultation and imaging | $150 | $300 | $150 |
| 7-day accommodation (mid-range) | $910–$1,120 | $1,400 | ~$400 |
| Round-trip airfare (Miami to Panama) | $190–$400 | N/A | N/A |
| Approximate Total | $5,650–$6,070 | $16,500+ | ~$10,500 |
What Payment Options Are Available?
Payment options at Panama City dental clinics include major credit cards, bank transfers, and cash. Because Panama uses the US dollar as its official currency, no currency conversion is needed. Some clinics offer cash discounts of 5–10%. Credit cards are widely accepted at hospitals, clinics, hotels, and restaurants throughout the city. Patients who need more extensive work sometimes combine veneers with dental implants in Panama for a complete smile restoration in one trip.
What Quality Standards Do Panama Dental Clinics Follow?
Panama dental clinics operate under strict MINSA (Ministry of Health) regulations. All dentists must be licensed through the Technical Health Council (Consejo Tecnico de Salud), which requires authenticated credentials from foreign-trained practitioners. Panama also enacted Law 419 (2024) to speed up approval of US and European medical products, keeping clinics current with international standards.
Which Panama Hospitals Hold JCI Accreditation?
Two hospitals in Panama City hold active JCI (Joint Commission International) accreditation. Hospital Punta Pacifica (Pacifica Salud) is the only Central American hospital affiliated with Johns Hopkins Medicine International. Hospital San Fernando received its 5th consecutive JCI accreditation in 2025, making it the first hospital in Panama to be JCI-certified (originally in 2011).
| Hospital | JCI Status | International Affiliation | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hospital Punta Pacifica (Pacifica Salud) | Active (2025) | Johns Hopkins Medicine International | Punta Pacifica, Panama City |
| Hospital San Fernando | Active (5th accreditation, 2025) | JCI | Panama City |
Having two JCI-accredited hospitals in Panama City means dental patients have access to emergency specialist care that meets international hospital standards. This safety net is a key advantage over dental tourism destinations that lack JCI-certified facilities.
What Technology Do Top Panama Dental Clinics Use?
Top dental clinics in Panama City use the same technology found in leading US practices. Premium ceramic materials include IPS e.max (lithium disilicate), Procera, Lava, and Cercon. Advanced clinics offer CAD/CAM systems for same-day restorations, 3D cone-beam imaging for precise treatment planning, and digital radiography for reduced radiation exposure.
- IPS e.max / Procera / Lava / Cercon: Premium ceramic systems for durable, natural-looking veneers
- CAD/CAM technology: Computer-aided design for same-day crown and veneer restorations
- 3D cone-beam CT imaging: Precise treatment planning and diagnostic accuracy
- Digital radiography: Lower radiation exposure than traditional X-rays
- Digital Smile Design software: Patients preview results before treatment begins
What Professional Credentials Do Panama Dentists Hold?
Panama dentists must be licensed by MINSA and validated by the Technical Health Council. Foreign-trained dentists submit authenticated credentials through licensed attorneys. Many dentists at top Panama City clinics hold ADA (American Dental Association) or AACD (American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry) memberships and complete ongoing continuing education. Approximately 90% of private-sector specialists in Panama City received training in the United States.
Which Dental Clinics in Panama Are Best for Veneers?
The best dental clinics for veneers in Panama City are concentrated in the Punta Pacifica, Marbella, and Costa del Este neighborhoods. Leading facilities include Pacific Dental Clinic (inside Hospital Punta Pacifica), Clinica Ford Dental Spa, and Clinica Arango Orillac, each with US-trained dentists and verified Technical Health Council registration.
What Are the Top Dental Clinics for Veneers in Panama City?
The top clinics for veneers in Panama City combine accredited facilities, advanced technology, and international patient experience:
| Clinic | Location | Specialization | Technology | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pacific Dental Clinic | Punta Pacifica (inside Hospital Punta Pacifica) | Full-mouth restoration, porcelain veneers, implants | 3D imaging, CAD/CAM, digital radiography | Via JCI-accredited host hospital; AACD credentials |
| Clinica Ford Dental Spa | Marbella and Costa del Este | Cosmetic dentistry, veneers, crowns | CAD/CAM same-day restorations | Technical Health Council registered; AACD credentialed |
| Clinica Arango Orillac | Panama City | Cosmetic dentistry, full-mouth rehabilitation | Advanced imaging, IPS e.max ceramics | Technical Health Council registered; US-trained staff |
What Should You Look for When Choosing a Panama Dental Clinic?
You should verify a Panama dental clinic’s credentials before booking treatment. Essential due diligence protects against poor-quality care and hidden fees. Reputable clinics in Panama City welcome credential requests and provide written treatment plans upfront.
Credential verification checklist:
- Diplomas and specialty certificates: Request proof of dental school graduation and any specialty training
- Professional memberships: Verify ADA, AACD, or Academy of General Dentistry membership
- Continuing education: Confirm recent training on current materials and techniques
- Material brands: Ask which ceramic systems are used (IPS e.max, Procera, Lava, or Cercon)
- Laboratory partnerships: Confirm in-house or partnered lab for veneer fabrication
- Written treatment plan: Itemized costs, timeline, and warranty terms in writing
What Red Flags Should You Avoid?
Red flags at Panama dental clinics include pressure to pay a large deposit immediately, refusal to provide credential documentation, and no written treatment plan or warranty. Also confirm the clinic is located in the Republic of Panama in Central America, not Panama City, Florida. Some patients have made this mistake when searching online.
- Pressure for immediate large deposits before consultation
- Reluctance to provide diplomas or specialty certificates
- No itemized written treatment plan or warranty terms
- No information about ceramic material brands or lab partners
- Address in Florida, not Central America
How Do You Plan Your Dental Trip to Panama City?
You can plan your dental trip to Panama City by booking flights to Tocumen International Airport (PTY), confirming your clinic appointment and treatment timeline, arranging accommodation near Punta Pacifica or Marbella, and downloading WhatsApp for communication with dental staff. Plan for 7–10 days for porcelain veneers or 3–5 days for composite veneers.
How Do You Get to Panama City for Dental Treatment?
You get to Panama City through Tocumen International Airport (PTY), located 24 kilometers from the city center. Direct nonstop flights are available from Miami, New York, Houston, and Los Angeles. Copa Airlines is the primary hub carrier with the most frequent departures from US cities.
| Origin City | Airlines | Flight Time | Approx. Round-Trip Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami (MIA) | Copa, American, Avianca | ~2.5–3 hours | $190–$400 |
| New York (JFK/EWR) | Copa, American, United | ~5.5–6.5 hours | $350–$650 |
| Houston (IAH) | Copa, United | ~4–4.5 hours | $289–$650 |
| Los Angeles (LAX) | Copa, Delta | ~6–6.5 hours | $400–$800 |
What Are the Entry Requirements for Panama?
US and Canadian citizens can enter Panama visa-free for up to 180 days. EU citizens receive a 90-day visa-free stay. All visitors need a valid passport with at least 6 months of remaining validity, a return or onward ticket, and proof of at least $500 in available funds. The yellow fever vaccine is no longer mandatory.
| Citizenship | Visa-Free Stay | Documents Required |
|---|---|---|
| US Citizens | 180 days | Valid passport (6+ months), return ticket, $500 proof of funds |
| Canadian Citizens | 180 days | Valid passport (6+ months), return ticket, $500 proof of funds |
| EU Citizens | 90 days | Valid passport (6+ months), return ticket, $500 proof of funds |
Where Should You Stay in Panama City for Dental Treatment?
You should stay in Punta Pacifica, Marbella, or Costa del Este for the safest and most convenient access to dental clinics in Panama City. Punta Pacifica is considered the top choice for medical tourists because it is home to Hospital Punta Pacifica and surrounded by upscale amenities.
| Hotel Category | Nightly Rate | 7-Day Total | Best Neighborhoods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $90–$120 | $630–$840 | Marbella, near Cinta Costera |
| Mid-range | $130–$160 | $910–$1,120 | Punta Pacifica, Costa del Este |
| Luxury | $200–$250 | $1,400–$1,750 | Punta Pacifica, Marbella oceanfront |
The primary safety risk in Punta Pacifica and Costa del Este is petty theft such as pickpocketing. Avoid lower-income neighborhoods like El Chorrillo, especially at night. Most clinics can arrange airport transfers directly to your accommodation.
How Long Do You Need to Stay in Panama for Veneers?
You need 7–10 days in Panama City for porcelain veneers, which require 5–7 days of laboratory fabrication between the preparation appointment and final placement. Composite veneers can be completed in 3–5 days. Complex cases needing preparatory work such as fillings or deep cleaning may require 10–14 days.
- Porcelain veneers: 7–10 days (includes lab fabrication period of 5–7 days)
- Composite veneers: 3–5 days (chair-side application, no lab wait)
- Complex cases: 10–14 days (preparatory fillings, deep cleaning, or gum treatment needed)
What Is the Step-by-Step Veneer Process in Panama?
The veneer process in Panama City follows a structured sequence from consultation through final bonding. Porcelain veneers require two to three clinic visits over 7–10 days, with a 5–7 day laboratory fabrication period between preparation and placement. Composite veneers are completed in a single visit with no laboratory wait time.
What Happens at Each Stage of the Veneer Process?
During each phase of the veneer process, specific clinical steps prepare your teeth and ensure the veneers fit and look natural. Digital Smile Design software lets you preview your result before any enamel is removed.
| Phase | Porcelain Veneers | Composite Veneers | Timeline | Key Activities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment | Examination, X-rays, digital impressions | Examination, X-rays | Day 1 | Diagnostic imaging, shade selection, smile design preview |
| Preparation | Tooth preparation, temporary veneers placed | Direct application begins | Day 1–2 | Enamel removal (0.3–0.5 mm), shade matching |
| Fabrication | Laboratory work period | Chair-side sculpting | 5–7 days vs same day | Custom veneer creation from IPS e.max or Procera |
| Placement | Final bonding and adjustments | Curing and final polishing | Final visit vs Day 1 | Permanent bonding, bite adjustment, polish |
What Happens During the Final Bonding Appointment?
During the final bonding appointment, the dentist fits each veneer for color and contour, prepares the tooth surface with etching gel, applies a bonding agent, positions the veneer precisely, then activates the bond with a curing light. The total appointment takes approximately 60–75 minutes for a full set of 8 veneers.
| Bonding Step | Procedure | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-bonding check | Fit verification, color matching | 15–20 minutes | Quality assurance before permanent bonding |
| Surface preparation | Etching gel application | 5 minutes | Micro-etching for adhesion optimization |
| Adhesive application | Bonding agent placement | 3–5 minutes | Primer creates permanent attachment base |
| Veneer placement | Precise positioning and pressure | 10 minutes | Final positioning of each veneer |
| Curing process | LED light activation | 2–3 minutes | Bond polymerization and hardening |
| Final adjustments | Bite refinement and polishing | 15–20 minutes | Comfort optimization and surface finish |
How Do Panama Veneers Compare to Other Dental Tourism Destinations?
Panama veneers compare favorably to Mexico, Costa Rica, and Colombia on quality assurance and currency stability, though Colombia offers slightly lower prices. Panama’s main competitive advantages are the US dollar economy (no exchange rate risk), two JCI-accredited hospitals, and the Johns Hopkins Medicine International affiliation at Hospital Punta Pacifica.
How Do Prices and Quality Compare Across Destinations?
Prices and quality across dental tourism destinations vary by currency stability, accreditation infrastructure, and US hospital affiliations. Panama positions itself as a premium destination that emphasizes quality assurance over maximum cost savings. The global dental tourism market is growing at 18–22% annually (CAGR 2025–2034), with Latin America capturing a growing share.
| Factor | Panama | Mexico | Costa Rica | Colombia |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain Veneers (avg) | $550/tooth | $600/tooth | $650/tooth | $500/tooth |
| Composite Veneers (avg) | $350/tooth | $400/tooth | $450/tooth | $300/tooth |
| Currency | US Dollar (no risk) | Peso (fluctuation risk) | Colon (fluctuation risk) | Peso (fluctuation risk) |
| JCI Hospitals | 2 (both active 2025) | Limited | Limited | Growing |
| US Medical Affiliation | Johns Hopkins (active) | Limited | Limited | Some available |
What Are Panama’s Unique Advantages Over Competitors?
Panama’s unique advantages include currency stability, established US hospital partnerships, and a modernized regulatory framework. Panama Law 419 (2024) accelerates approval of US and European medical products, keeping Panama’s clinics aligned with the latest materials and equipment standards. No other Central American country offers this combination of factors. Patients who want to compare pricing across the region may also review dental veneers in Colombia, where porcelain costs average $500 per tooth.
- USD economy: No currency exchange risk for North American patients
- Johns Hopkins affiliation: Only Central American hospital with this partnership (Hospital Punta Pacifica)
- Dual JCI accreditation: Two hospitals certified (Hospital Punta Pacifica and Hospital San Fernando)
- Law 419 (2024): Streamlined approval of US and EU medical products and equipment
- English-speaking staff: ~90% of private specialists trained in the United States
- Geographic access: Direct flights from Miami in as little as 2.5 hours
What Are the Pros and Cons of Getting Veneers in Panama?
Getting veneers in Panama City offers significant financial savings and access to quality care, but patients must plan for limited continuity of care after returning home. Panama is a value-driven, low-risk destination rather than simply a budget option. The key challenge is arranging follow-up care with a local dentist who can handle any post-treatment issues.
What Are the Main Advantages of Panama Dental Tourism?
The main advantages of getting veneers in Panama City are the substantial cost savings combined with international-quality facilities. Panama is one of the few dental tourism destinations that offers both price advantages and JCI-level hospital infrastructure, making it suitable for patients who want savings without accepting lower safety standards.
- 60–72% cost savings compared to US prices for porcelain veneers
- US dollar economy eliminates exchange rate risk
- JCI-accredited hospitals provide emergency care access at international standards
- 180-day visa-free stay for US and Canadian citizens
- English-speaking dental staff trained in the United States
- Short travel time: Miami to Panama City in approximately 2.5 hours
- Same premium materials (IPS e.max, Procera, Cercon) as US clinics
What Are the Risks and Disadvantages to Consider?
The primary risk of getting veneers in Panama City is the challenge of continuity of care after returning home. If a veneer chips or loosens within the first year, repair at a local US or Canadian dentist will cost $800–$1,200 at full domestic rates. Travel insurance typically excludes elective cosmetic procedures, leaving patients responsible for unexpected costs.
- Continuity of care: Post-treatment complications require local dental intervention at full domestic pricing ($800–$1,200 per repair)
- Travel insurance gaps: Most policies exclude elective cosmetic dental procedures
- Distance complications: Emergency situations are harder to manage from abroad
- Limited legal recourse: Malpractice claims against Panama practitioners offer less consumer protection than US or Canadian systems
- Communication barriers: Technical follow-up explanations may be harder remotely
What Aftercare Is Required After Getting Veneers in Panama?
Aftercare after getting veneers in Panama City requires consistent daily oral hygiene and regular professional checkups. Porcelain veneers last 10–15 years (120–180 months) with proper care. Composite veneers last 4–8 years (48–96 months). Before leaving Panama, obtain a written warranty from your clinic and establish a relationship with a local dentist at home for routine follow-up.
Daily oral hygiene requirements:
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove debris at veneer margins (water flossers are ideal)
- Professional cleaning every 6 months with a veneer-trained hygienist
- Annual comprehensive evaluation of veneer integrity
Dietary restrictions for the first 48 hours after bonding include soft foods only and no temperature extremes. Long-term, avoid hard foods (ice, hard candy, nuts), sticky foods (caramel, taffy), and limit pigmented beverages. Patients with bruxism should use a custom night guard to protect veneers during sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Veneers in Panama
How much do dental veneers cost in Panama?
Porcelain veneers in Panama City cost $400–$700 per tooth, which is 60–72% less than the US average of $1,477–$1,765 per tooth. Composite veneers average $250–$450 per tooth. An 8-veneer porcelain smile makeover costs approximately $4,400 in Panama versus $14,800 in the United States.
Why choose Panama for veneers?
Panama offers a USD economy with no exchange rate risk, two JCI-accredited hospitals (Hospital Punta Pacifica with Johns Hopkins affiliation and Hospital San Fernando), English-speaking dentists with US training, MINSA regulatory oversight, and Law 419 (2024) ensuring current US and EU medical product standards.
What veneer types are available and how long do they last?
Porcelain veneers (IPS e.max, Procera, Cercon) last 10–15 years with stain resistance and require 2–3 visits over 7–10 days. Composite resin veneers last 4–8 years and can be completed in a single same-day visit. Lumineers are ultra-thin, often reversible, and last 10–15 years with minimal tooth preparation.
What is the treatment process and timeline in Panama?
Day 1: assessment with exam, X-rays, digital impressions, and Digital Smile Design preview. Day 1–2: tooth preparation with shade selection and temporary veneers. Days 3–8: laboratory fabrication period for porcelain (5–7 days). Final visit: permanent bonding, curing, and bite adjustment. Plan 7–10 days total for porcelain or 1–2 days for composite.
What quality standards and accreditations do Panama dental clinics follow?
Clinics operate under MINSA regulations with credential validation by the Technical Health Council. Panama has two JCI-accredited hospitals: Hospital Punta Pacifica (with Johns Hopkins affiliation) and Hospital San Fernando (5th consecutive JCI accreditation in 2025). Many dentists hold ADA and AACD memberships. Law 419 (2024) ensures US and EU product approval standards.
Who is a good candidate for dental veneers?
Adults with healthy teeth and gums, no active decay or gum disease, and sufficient enamel for bonding qualify for veneers. Patients with bruxism should plan for a custom night guard. Veneers are a cosmetic procedure and are not covered by most US or Canadian dental insurance plans, so patients pay out of pocket.
How do I choose a reputable dental clinic in Panama?
Verify diplomas, specialty certificates, ADA or AACD membership, continuing education history, and the ceramic material brands used. Request a written treatment plan with itemized costs and warranty terms. Named clinics serving international patients include Pacific Dental Clinic, Clinica Ford Dental Spa, and Clinica Arango Orillac. Confirm the clinic address is in the Republic of Panama, not Florida.
What total savings and extra costs should I expect?
An 8-veneer porcelain case costs approximately $4,400 in Panama versus $14,800 in the United States, saving roughly $10,400. Including airfare from Miami ($190–$400) and 7 days of mid-range accommodation ($910–$1,120), net savings typically exceed $8,000. Additional costs may include diagnostic X-rays, preparatory fillings, or deep cleaning if needed before veneers.
What aftercare is required to maximize veneer longevity?
Brush twice daily with a soft brush and non-abrasive toothpaste, floss daily using a water flosser for veneer margins, and get professional cleanings every 6 months. For the first 48 hours after bonding, eat soft foods and avoid temperature extremes. Long term, avoid hard and sticky foods and use a night guard for bruxism protection.
What are the key risks and downsides to consider?
Continuity of care after returning home is the main challenge. Repairs at a local US dentist cost $800–$1,200 at full domestic rates. Travel insurance usually excludes cosmetic dental procedures. Legal recourse for malpractice is more limited than in the US or Canada. Plan for a local follow-up dentist before traveling.
Ready to Start Your Dental Veneer Journey in Panama?
Medical Tourism Packages coordinates your entire dental veneer journey in Panama. We connect you with verified clinics in Panama City, arrange airport transfers and accommodation near Punta Pacifica, and provide bilingual support from first consultation through final placement. Get a free consultation for a personalized quote.
Contact us today to start planning your dental trip to Panama.
