Here's exactly what happens, from search to settled care.
Crossing a border for care can feel uncertain. NABA structures the process into clear, documented steps — so you always know what happens next, and why.
Everything that happens before you ever cross the border.
Explore your options
Browse the NABA clinic network and treatment information — no commitment required.
Choose a clinic
Select a clinic reviewed through NABA's credentialing process based on treatment, location and languages spoken.
Review your treatment estimate
See the coordination fee and treatment cost, clearly separated, before you agree to anything.
Complete your NABA agreement
A documented agreement defines what NABA does, what the clinic does, and what you're paying for — including refund terms, in writing, before any payment is processed.
Two distinct transactions. Always separated. Always documented.
Once you accept your NABA agreement, your coordination fee and treatment payment are handled as two distinct transactions — never bundled into one unclear charge.
Covers administrative, logistical, marketing and technology-related services — paid when you accept your agreement, before your appointment is scheduled.
The treatment amount charged on behalf of the independent clinic providing your care. NABA processes the payment according to the documented agreement and settles with the clinic through its administrative payment process.
Why it matters: because the two payments are never combined, you can always tell what you paid NABA to coordinate, and what you paid the clinic to treat you.
What happens once you're at the clinic.
Clinic coordination
NABA schedules and confirms your visit directly with the clinic, and coordinates logistics and communication on your behalf — including language support if you need it.
Treatment
Your dental treatment is provided independently by the clinic's licensed dental professionals. NABA does not diagnose, prescribe or make clinical decisions during your visit.
Closing the loop, with everything documented.
Confirmation
Your treatment is recorded and confirmed as part of the NABA process, so there's a clear record of what was completed.
Clinic Payment Settlement
Once treatment has been confirmed according to the documented process, NABA completes the administrative settlement with the clinic.
What NABA does — and where that ends.
- Coordinates the administrative and logistical process
- Verifies clinic credentials and documentation
- Separates and documents every payment
- Provides a real point of contact throughout
- Confirms and documents your treatment process
- Settles payment with the clinic per your agreement
- Clinical decisions remain between you and your independent dental provider.
- Diagnose
- Prescribe
- Provide dental treatment
- Determine clinical treatment
- Own participating dental clinics
- Guarantee clinical outcomes
Frequently asked questions
How long does the whole process take?
Timelines vary by treatment and clinic availability. Once your NABA agreement is complete, your NABA contact will walk you through the expected timing for your specific case.
Is the coordination fee refundable?
Refund terms are laid out clearly in your NABA agreement before you pay anything, so you know the terms in advance — not after.
Do I need to speak Spanish?
No. Part of NABA's coordination role is helping you communicate clearly with your clinic, regardless of language.
What happens if the clinic recommends additional treatment once I'm there?
Any change to your treatment plan is a clinical decision between you and your dentist. NABA doesn't make or approve clinical decisions, but can help you understand how a change affects your documented costs.
What if I need to reschedule my appointment?
Contact your NABA point of contact as early as possible — coordinating changes with the clinic is part of what NABA handles for you.
Who do I contact if something feels wrong during the process?
Your NABA contact is your point of escalation throughout — from before you cross the border to after your treatment is complete.
What happens if I disagree with my treatment or have a problem with the clinic?
NABA can assist with administrative communication, while clinical concerns are handled directly with the independent dental provider.
Ready to take the next step?
Tell us what you're looking for. We'll help you understand the next steps.