Short answer: pay in USD or by card
Almost every dental clinic in Algodones lists prices in US dollars. Pay in cash USD if you have it (cleanest). Credit card adds 3–4% processing on most clinics. Pesos work but the in-clinic exchange rate is usually worse than your bank.
How exchange rates work in Algodones
Banks and casas de cambio post a buy/sell rate. Clinics use a fixed internal rate that is usually 2–4% worse. So if the official rate is 17.50 MXN/USD, a clinic might charge as if it were 17.00. On a $5,000 treatment, that is $80–150 you leave on the table by paying pesos.
Credit cards — what to know
Most clinics accept Visa, Mastercard, and AmEx. There is typically a 3–4% surcharge to cover the merchant fee (Mexican processors charge clinics around 3.5%). Some clinics absorb it on smaller amounts. Always ask before swiping. Tip: a no-foreign-fee card (like Capital One Venture or Chase Sapphire) is cheaper than the surcharge for most patients.
ATMs in Algodones
ATMs exist on the main street but charge $5–8 USD per withdrawal plus your bank's fee plus an exchange spread. Best practice: bring USD cash from your US bank or Costco (clean rates), and keep a card as backup.
How Dental Inzunza handles payment
We accept cash USD (preferred), all major credit cards (3% surcharge), Mexican pesos at fair exchange (we honor your bank's rate within 1%), Zelle and Venmo for follow-up payments, and we offer in-house financing for treatments over $3,000. We never charge a deposit before your free diagnosis is complete and you have signed off on the plan.
Frequently asked questions
Should I bring cash or pay by card?
Cash USD if you have a no-fee bank or Costco. Otherwise a no-foreign-fee credit card. Avoid pesos unless your bank gives you a great rate.
How much cash should I bring?
Bring 5–10% over your quoted price for incidentals (food, taxi, tips). Larger treatments are usually invoiced and paid by card or wire.
Will my US bank flag transactions in Mexico?
Sometimes. Call your bank before crossing and tell them you will use the card in Algodones BC, Mexico. Saves a frozen card mid-treatment.
Can I pay over multiple visits?
Yes. Most clinics including ours bill per phase (impressions, fitting, delivery). For All-on-4, payment is typically split into 3 visits.
Are tips expected?
Not for clinical staff. Optional 10–15% in restaurants and for taxi drivers.