Everything you need to know about visiting the Dental Capital of the World. Get 2026 border hours, parking tips, and ID requirements for a seamless journey to your new smile.
Visiting Los Algodones is a unique and straightforward process. Most patients enter via the Andrade Port of Entry, located just 7 miles west of Yuma, Arizona. Unlike other border cities, Algodones is a small, walkable town entirely dedicated to medical and dental tourism. Our clinic is located just two blocks from the border, making it easily accessible for those receiving All-on-4 implants or other major work.
This guide is essential for US and Canadian citizens traveling to Mexico for the first time. You will need a valid Passport or Passport Card to re-enter the United States. While many patients still use a Driver’s License and Birth Certificate, 2026 regulations strongly recommend a passport for the fastest processing. If you are staying overnight for a Full Smile Makeover, this guide will help you navigate the FMM (tourist permit) requirements.
We highly recommend parking on the US side at the Quechan Tribe parking lot (approx. $10/day) and walking across. The pedestrian crossing takes only minutes, whereas vehicle lanes can have significant wait times. Once across, you are in a “Tourist Zone” where US dollars are the standard currency and English is spoken fluently. Walking also allows you to easily explore local pharmacies for your post-op medications after your bone grafting procedure.
Getting to Nogales is simple and convenient.
Most patients fly into Tucson, which is about 1 hour south of Nogales. From Tucson, you can:
Rent a car and drive to the border
Take a shuttle service
Use Uber or Lyft
Schedule private transportation with us, we provide pick up and drop off service.
Once you arrive at the U.S.–Mexico border in Nogales, you simply walk across — Cotton Dental is just minutes from the border.
Transportation is very affordable compared to major U.S. cities.
Approximate prices:
Uber from Tucson to Nogales border: $90–$120 one way
Private shuttle service: $120–$180 round trip
Taxi within Nogales (Mexico): $5–$10
Many dental tourists coordinate rides ahead of time for convenience and peace of mind.
Yes — it’s very easy and common for dental patients.
You will park or get dropped off on the U.S. side in Nogales, Arizona, then walk across the pedestrian border. The crossing usually takes 5–20 minutes, depending on the time of day.
After crossing into Nogales, Sonora:
Cotton Dental is typically just a short walk or quick taxi ride
Staff can often assist with directions or pickup coordination
When returning to the U.S., allow extra time during peak hours.
To enter Mexico, U.S. citizens generally only need:
A valid passport (recommended)
Or a passport card
To return to the U.S., you must present:
A valid U.S. passport or passport card
It’s best to carry:
Your dental appointment confirmation
A small amount of cash (some taxis prefer cash)
Comfortable walking shoes
Book your FREE dental implant consultation in Los Algodones today and rediscover the power of a complete smile! 🦷🌟
Monday : 8am – 5pm
Tuesday : 8am – 5pm
Wednesday : 8am – 5pm
Thursday : 8am – 5pm
Friday : 8am – 5pm
Saturday : 8am – 5pm
