Professional Experience
Dr. Bonilla is a recognized leader in both clinical practice and dental tourism.
- Founder and Director of New Smile Dental Group as well as Sonrisa Para Todos in Costa Rica.
- Since 1999, he has led the clinic to become a center specialized in fixed prosthetics, dental implants (including subperiosteal), and full-mouth rehabilitations.
- He has placed over 10,000 dental implants (some sources say more than 14,000).
- He has built a high-tech on-site dental laboratory and CAD/CAM system to maintain quality and reduce costs.
- He also leads his team in providing care for international patients, emphasizing safety, affordability, and quality.
Academic Contributions
Dr. Bonilla remains active in professional education and the advancement of implantology.
- He has taught and trained many dentists in the Valplast technique, with more than 800 cases performed under his guidance.
- Regular speaker at dental conferences in Costa Rica and the United States.
- Mentor to younger dentists in the practice of fixed prosthetics, implants, and esthetic dentistry.
Areas of Expertise
Dr. Bonilla’s clinical strengths are broad, but he is especially recognized for certain complex and patient-centered treatments.
- Dental Implants and Full-Mouth Rehabilitation: He restores missing teeth using fixed solutions, even in cases with severe bone loss.
- Fixed Prosthetics: Crowns, bridges, and fixed prostheses to reconstruct function and aesthetics.
- Esthetic Dentistry: Cosmetic treatments that give natural-looking results, designed to feel and look like real teeth.
- Valplast Removable Dentures: Early in his career, he popularized Valplast flexible dentures in Costa Rica; now his focus is on long-term fixed solutions.
Patient Care Philosophy
Dr. Bonilla is deeply committed to patient-centered care, blending technical excellence with empathy.
- He believes in restoring the “most natural feeling” for his patients, prioritizing both function and aesthetics.
- He is available for online pre-consultations, which helps international patients plan their treatment before traveling.
- He emphasizes clear communication, educating patients about options, risks, and aftercare.
- He maintains cultural sensitivity by speaking Spanish, English, and Portuguese, and by being familiar with the needs of medical-tourism patients.
- Patient testimonials frequently highlight his honest, caring nature and high professional standards.
Professional Affiliations
- Member of the Colegio de Cirujanos Dentistas de Costa Rica (Costa Rican Dental Surgeons College).
- Member of the American Dental Association (ADA).
- Member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID).
- Member of the International Congress of Oral Implantology (ICOI).
FAQs
- Is Dr. Mario Bonilla board-certified?
- While Costa Rica does not use the same “board-certification” system as the U.S., Dr. Bonilla holds professional membership in prominent organizations such as the ADA, AAID, and ICOI, demonstrating his high level of training and recognition.
- What types of surgeries does he perform?
- He performs dental implant surgeries, including full-mouth implant rehabilitation and fixed prosthetic restorations.
- Does he treat international patients?
- Yes, he treats many medical-tourism patients. His clinic provides pre-consultations, travel support, and accommodations for foreigners seeking treatment.
- How long is the typical stay for his patients after treatment?
- The exact length depends on the procedure, but many international patients stay around 10 to 15 days to complete treatment, recovery, and follow-up.
- What languages does Dr. Bonilla speak?
- He is fluent in Spanish, English, and Portuguese, allowing him to communicate effectively with both local and international patients.
- How many implants has he placed?
- Dr. Bonilla has placed over 10,000 dental implants in his career, and some sources cite more than 14,000.
- Is there a patient satisfaction guarantee?
- While there is no formal “guarantee,” many patient reviews stress his honest care, attention to aftercare, and long-term support.
