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Over the last couple of weeks, medical tourism has been back in the news, including travelling to Turkey for dental treatment. You may remember that last year, the neologism ‘Turkey Teeth’ was coined, describing smiles that had been cosmetically treated in countries where treatment is cheaper than here in the UK. But just like last year, it’s not good news.
We’ve been asked several times by our patients if there are any advantages to seeking cut price dental treatment abroad. We thought we would explore this in a blog to shed some light on dental tourism, namely in counties such as Turkey.
There are many talented dentists working responsibly in other countries, but it can be hard to seek them out. One of the reasons why, is that countries like Turkey are not subject to the same discerning regulations set by the GDC here in the UK. This means dentists can choose to cut corners on aspects like materials and take less time over a procedure or post-procedural disinfecting should they wish to.
Whilst it’s true that you can potentially save money on having dental treatment abroad, unless you are meticulous with your research, you might do more harm than good overall.
It’s fair to say that the potential risks do outweigh the benefits of travelling for cheaper dental treatment abroad. In 2022, 17 Britons actually died as a direct result of travelling for cheap, and what turned out to be significantly botched dental treatment. As responsible dentists who abide by the letter of the GDC law, at Ashbourne Road Dental, it pains us to hear such devastating news, and we have a moral duty to make our patients aware of the potential risks. These include the following.
The infection control and sterilisation laws in the UK are extremely strict, and with good reason. However, the same cannot be said of many of the healthcare environments in countries such as Turkey and Greece.
Treatment such as dental implants involves a complex surgery to have the implants placed within the jaw. An unsterilised anaesthetic needle is enough to cause a potentially fatal condition, such as sepsis.
As we know from the numerous news articles, many patients have returned from Turkey with diabolical oral health problems as a result of botched treatment.
Unfortunately, it’s not often possible to have retreatment in the UK, as dentists are not necessarily insured to intervene when treatment has failed.
In such cases, patients feel have little choice but to return to go back to the dentist in Turkey to receive retreatment. Not only does this cost them potentially thousands of pounds, but it also puts them at risk of further issues at the hands of the dentist responsible for their botched treatment in the first instance.
The moral of the story? Invest the money to have your treatment performed in a safe environment, and by a competent dentist in the first instance.
Here at Ashbourne Road Dental, we can offer long-term finance options, giving you the freedom to spread the cost of your treatment over a period of months. We never want anyone to feel like they have to go abroad because of finances, and potentially risk their health as a result. Speak to one of our dentists about financing your treatment, and we will see how we can best accommodate your financial circumstances.
If you’ve seen any of the photos of patients’ smiles after they have travelled to Turkey for their dream smile, you might have noticed that the aesthetic results aren’t what they’re cracked up to be.
The materials used are often substandard, as are the adhesives and adhering techniques used to place veneers and composite onto the teeth. Unsurprisingly, this results in fake-looking teeth with a blindingly white tooth shade that appears in no way authentic. The way that veneers and crowns are placed can also make teeth appear as if they are protruding and not in ratio with your mouth and lip shape.
It’s these subtle factors that separate authentic-looking dental work from poorly executed treatment and poorly designed restorations.
One of the most shocking news stories we heard was that dentists in Turkey were diagnosing treatments, giving the green light to patients from mere photographs they had sent in on Instagram.
Where do we even start with this one…. This is dangerous, irresponsible and motivated by one thing and one thing only… money.
A reputable dentist in the UK would NEVER diagnose the need for a treatment from photographs alone.
Here at Ashbourne Road Dental, all treatments (including elective treatments like teeth whitening, composite bonding and veneers) are subject to a thorough consultation. During this consultation, we will:
– Take X-rays of your teeth.
– Take digital scans and photos of your teeth.
– Make a thorough assessment of your teeth and gums to ensure you are clinically fit for treatment.
– Ask you about your medical history and about any medication you’re currently taking.
If a dentist isn’t doing the above, you should consider it a red flag, and a reason to find another dentist.
Get in touch with a cosmetic dentist Derby to book your no-obligation consultation. If you simply want to discuss going to Turkey for dental treatment with one of our dentists, they are very happy to address your concerns and offer advice.
You can also take a look at our Instagram page to hear cosmetic dentist Dr Hassan discuss his approach to cosmetic dentistry.
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Proudly serving patients throughout Derby, Derbyshire private and NHS.
“Best dentist I’ve been to! The staff are all so friendly and welcoming. Lovely new waiting room. Went for a...”
“Compelled to give this practice another 5 stars after, once again, fantastic service. I had dental pain whilst on holiday,...”
“Brilliant service, top quality. The hygiene and, specifically, the cleanliness is excellent. I was made to feel comfortable and at...”
“A fantastic experience from start to finish. The service has always been friendly, personal and efficient, from those in reception...”
“Absolutely amazing. I have never been more at ease with a dental procedure. I have autism and ADHD and have...”
“Best dentist I’ve been to! The staff are all so friendly and welcoming. Lovely new waiting room. Went for a...”
“Compelled to give this practice another 5 stars after, once again, fantastic service. I had dental pain whilst on holiday,...”
“Brilliant service, top quality. The hygiene and, specifically, the cleanliness is excellent. I was made to feel comfortable and at...”
“A fantastic experience from start to finish. The service has always been friendly, personal and efficient, from those in reception...”
“Absolutely amazing. I have never been more at ease with a dental procedure. I have autism and ADHD and have...”
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