About to book that 2-in-1 dental holiday to Turkey?
Not so fast.
#TurkeyTeeth is a huge viral trend, that has led to thousands of Brits jetting off in search of a dream smile. But before you hop on the next Boeing 737 to Antalya, there’s something you should know…
That dream smile can very quickly spiral into a nightmare.
Although it may save you a few pounds in the short term, dental tourism is very rarely a good idea. Here we explore some of the main risks associated with dental treatment in Turkey, and why booking an appointment in the UK is always the better option.
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The risks you need to know about Turkey teeth
1. False advertisement
In most cases, patients are promised a set of ‘Turkey veneers’ – but this isn’t what they get.
Instead, they almost always receive crowns.
Crowns are typically used as they’re cheaper, faster and require much less dental skill. But to fit them into place, around 60-70% of the natural tooth’s enamel needs to be filed down to small stubs (compared to just 0.5mm for veneers). And this invasive procedure can lead to dire consequences.
Not only is it irreversible, there’s a chance the crowns will fail within just a few years, and you could lose your natural teeth in the near future. As a result, you’re likely to require a lifetime of expensive and painful remedial treatments, such as a root canal, dental implants or dentures – for absolutely no reason.
2. Unregulated dental clinics
In the UK, the practice of dentistry is fully regulated. All procedures must comply with the strict standards of conduct set by the General Dental Council (GDC), designed to safeguard patients.
But unfortunately, such regulations do not apply and are seldom upheld in Turkey.
The standard of care, level of cleanliness and quality of equipment are unlikely to match that in the UK. Procedures tend to be rushed with zero recovery time. And there have now become countless reports of Turkey teeth patients becoming seriously ill following their treatment.
In fact, according to the latest updated guidance from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, 22 Brits have died in Turkey since 2019 during a ‘medical tourism’ visit.
3. Additional complications
Aside from tooth loss (which is a pretty severe complication!), other complications are likely, including:
- intense long-lasting pain
- excessive swelling
- infections of the gums, sinuses and bones
- exposed nerves and sensitivity, making it difficult to eat and drink
- rotting teeth
- issues with an uneven bite, leading to TMJD and migraines
- ill-fitting ‘Lego teeth’, which are too big (or small) for the mouth
In a recent survey by the British Dentist Association, 95% of dentists reported they had examined patients with Turkey teeth. And 86% of those cases developed complications.
Irreversible treatment in Turkey may be available for a fraction of the price it would cost in the UK. But in the long run, the hidden follow-up costs for repair work often exceed £5000.
4. Poor aesthetic detail
Cutting corners rarely leads to the best results.
Dental treatment in Turkey may be conveniently fast – but there’s a reason for that.
Compared to UK veneers, which are crafted by a skilled lab technician, the crowns used in Turkey are machine-made. As a result, they tend to lack detail. They also tend to be fastened in a row rather than individually – which typically creates a fake, dazzlingly bright and one-dimensional look.
Far from the natural-looking, pearly-white smile you dreamed of!
Cancel your flight and call Kiln Lane
We appreciate how tempting it can be to go overseas for cut-price treatment. But whilst it may seem like a good deal in the short term, it can (and usually does!) lead to serious oral health complications that cannot be reversed. And once you factor in the cost of further treatments, it’s often more expensive in the long run.
The reality of #TurkeyTeeth is rarely as simple or successful as it appears on TikTok. It’s certainly nothing to smile about. Be aware of the risks and keep in mind – safer, less invasive treatment alternatives are available at dental clinics in the UK, including at Kiln Lane Dental.
We currently offer both composite bonding and veneers, both of which achieve fantastic results with very minimal changes to your natural tooth enamel. And you can trust our team to protect your welfare, advise on the best option for you and carry out work to the highest standards.
For advice on how to achieve your dream smile – without resorting to dental treatment in Turkey – give the friendly team at our St Helens dental practice a call. You’re welcome to contact us any time on 01744 25776. Or send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk and we’ll respond as soon as possible with further information.