Documents (non-negotiable)
- Valid passport book OR passport card OR Enhanced Driver's License OR NEXUS/SENTRI/Green Card
- Photocopy of passport (separate from original)
- Insurance card if you have PPO that reimburses Mexico work
- Current dental X-rays (panoramic) if available — ask your US dentist for digital copy on USB or email
- List of medications and dosages
- Emergency contact list (family + your US doctor)
Medical / health
- 3-day supply of any prescription medications
- Pain reliever you tolerate (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
- Hand sanitizer + masks if you prefer
- Reading glasses
- Hearing aid batteries
- Soft mouthguard if you grind
Money
- USD cash for parking ($8) + meals + tips ($30–60)
- Estimated treatment cost in cash if paying upfront
- Credit card backup (no-foreign-fee preferred)
- Notify your bank you will use card in Mexico
Comfort
- Light layers — clinics are AC'd, the street is hot
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun hat / sunglasses (Yuma is sunny year-round)
- Small umbrella in winter
- Snack for low-blood-sugar moments
- Phone charger / battery pack
After treatment
- Soft food list ready (yogurt, soup, smoothies)
- Ice packs at hotel for swelling
- 2 days of light clothing for recovery
- Notebook to write down post-care instructions
The night-before mental checklist
- Border crossing time? (we recommend 8–9 AM)
- Hotel shuttle confirmed?
- Phone has data plan in Mexico (or T-Mobile/Google Fi unlimited)?
- Emergency contacts written down (not just on phone)?
- Dental Inzunza phone saved: US +1 (760) 890-4786
Frequently asked questions
Do I really need a passport?
You need an approved document — passport book, card, EDL, NEXUS, SENTRI or Green Card. A regular driver's license alone will NOT get you back to the US.
Should I bring my own prosthetic if I have one?
Yes, especially if it is failing. We can use it for reference or repair.
Will my US prescription work at a Mexican pharmacy?
Many do, especially for non-controlled meds. Bring the original bottle or e-prescription.
Can I drink alcohol the day of treatment?
Best to skip alcohol the day before and the day of treatment, especially if local anesthetic or sedation is used.
Is bottled water provided at the clinic?
Yes, free at our reception, plus filtered water at every workstation.