Dental Tourism | “Turkey Teeth” Are They Worth It?

Dental Tourism | “Turkey Teeth” Are They Worth It?

21 / 04 / 2025

Dental tourism has captured global attention, promising affordable treatments abroad alongside exotic travel experiences. Are the savings worth the potential risks? While travelling for dental procedures may appear cost-effective, it is important to weigh this option carefully against the benefits of receiving treatment from a local, trusted practice. Crown Bank Dental in Cheshire explores the pros, cons, and hidden factors tied to dental tourism and highlights why local care might be the safer, smarter choice. Crown Bank Dental practice partner Dr. Janine Doughty, shares a deeper insight on dental tourism through her research article on the topic.

What Is Dental Tourism?

Dental tourism involves travelling to another country to access dental treatments, such as crowns, implants, or veneers, often at significantly lower prices. Destinations like Turkey, Hungary, and Poland are popular hotspots for UK residents. While social media platforms and online influencers frequently glamorise the trend, the reality of dental tourism can be far more complicated.

The Pros of Dental Tourism

It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of dental tourism. Some of the reasons why patients choose dental tourism include:

• Lower Costs: Dental procedures abroad can cost significantly less than in the UK. Some treatments are offered at  lower cost when compared to domestic prices.
• Quick Combination of Travel and Treatment: For some, dental trips serve a dual purpose, blending cosmetic upgrades with a vacation experience.
• Accessibility: With the current challenges in accessing NHS services in the UK, patients may turn to dental tourism as a “quick fix” solution to their needs.

The Cons of Dental Tourism

We advise using your local and trusted dentist instead of risking dental tourism outcomes. For a detailed review of the risks involved in dental tourism, check out Dr. Janine Doughty’s research article on the topic. Some of the cons of dental tourism include:

• Quality of Care: Standards of care vary widely by country. Some clinics abroad may not adhere to rigorous safety and hygiene standards, increasing the risks of complications.
• Post-Treatment Complications: Many patients report issues such as infections, poorly executed procedures, or a failure to align treatments with UK dental standards. A British Dental Association (BDA) study revealed that 86% of UK dentists have treated patients suffering from the after-effects of dental tourism, often at substantial costs.
• Hidden and Follow-up Costs: While the initial costs abroad may seem appealing, patients often incur unforeseen expenses. Flights, accommodations, and corrective treatments back home can quickly add to the final bill, sometimes exceeding the cost of The original treatment undertaken overseas.
• Lack of Aftercare: Post-procedure concerns, such as follow-ups, adjustments, or complications, often require local treatment. UK dentists may hesitate to address such cases due to liability concerns or incompatibility with foreign materials.

Why Consider Local Dental Care in Cheshire?

Rather than taking risks with dental treatments abroad, patients have a safer alternative. Opting for a trusted local high quality dental practice, such as Crown Bank Dental in Cheshire, offers numerous advantages that outweigh the upfront financial appeal of dental tourism. The reasons patients come to us for trusted dental care include:

• Uncompromised Quality and Expertise: Patients benefit from highly qualified dentists who adhere to UK regulations and safety standards. Services range from general check-ups to advanced treatments like dental implants, Invisalign®, and oral surgery.
• Personalised Care and Aftercare: Unlike overseas treatments, Crown Bank Dental ensures continuity of care. This means detailed pre-treatment consultations, personalised treatment plans, and dedicated post-procedure follow-ups.
• Advanced Dental Technology: State-of-the-art equipment and modern techniques make procedures at Crown Bank Dental efficient and comfortable, ensuring optimal outcomes.
• Convenient and Reliable: With an exceptional reputation across Cheshire, Crown Bank Dental offers convenient access to quality care without the hassle of travel. Glowing reviews from local patients underscore our commitment to patient comfort and satisfaction.
• Transparent Pricing: Dental practices in the UK offer clear and transparent pricing. They eliminate hidden costs that often catch dental tourists off-guard. Additionally, membership plans enable patients to spread costs and access discounts.
• Ethical and Responsible Treatment: Unlike sensationalised quick fixes abroad, treatments at Crown Bank Dental maintain a focus on long-term oral health, prioritising minimally invasive methods and ethical care.

A Community That Cares

At Crown Bank Dental, we’re not just providers of dental treatments. We’re part of a thriving community focused on oral health and well-being. Our dedicated team is here to make every step of your dental care as smooth and stress-free as possible. You don’t need to leave the country to gain the smile you deserve. Instead, opt for safe, expert dental care right in your backyard. Don’t risk the potential downsides of dental tourism. Book a consultation with Crown Bank Dental today for trusted, high-quality care in Cheshire.