The rise in visits to Turkey from patients looking to transform their teeth has been significant in recent years. “Turkey teeth” refers to the ultra-white, uniform veneers and crowns that people get treatment for in Turkey. While it’s become a popular option for treatment, it’s important to understand the realities of “Turkey teeth” and the potential risks.

Why Are People Travelling Abroad for Veneers?

Turkey has become a leading destination for patients looking for dental treatment, in particular for dental veneers. The reasons behind people travelling abroad include:

• Affordability: A full set of dental veneers or crowns can cost up to 70% less than in the UK
• All-inclusive packages: Dental clinics often include hotels and airport transfers within the treatment plan.
• Social media influence: Viral smile transformations have created demand.

The Difference Between Crowns & Veneers

While many patients believe they are getting veneers when they go abroad, in some cases, dentists are actually performing treatment for crowns.

Dental veneers require minimal removal of the enamel and are therefore a less invasive treatment option. Dental crowns, on the other hand, are a more invasive treatment, and without proper care, can lead to longer-term tooth sensitivity.

While both treatment options offer similar end results, a uniform gleaming smile being the desirable goal, dental crowns are more invasive than veneers and are an irreversible treatment. Find out more about treatment for dental crowns and veneers.

The Risks of Dental Treatment in Turkey

While many patients who visit Turkey for their dental treatment are happy with their results, others face problems and complications. Undergoing treatment for dental veneers abroad carries a few risks, including:

• Tooth damage from over-preparation
• Post-treatment pain or infections, from poor hygiene and sterilisation in some clinics
• Expensive repairs, if required, back home in the UK

Commonly, dentists in the UK are hesitant to treat patients who have received treatment for their teeth abroad. This is due to these dentists using different techniques and materials.

While a new smile can be transformative, for both how you look and your confidence, it’s important to understand what treatment you are receiving and the associated risks and considerations with this. From here, you may then want to consider whether the long-term result and potential costs outweigh the upfront savings you might make from having treatment abroad.

If you are considering dental treatment outside of the UK, we highly recommend you research dental clinics thoroughly and consult with your at-home dentist.