Understanding Turkey Teeth: Are they worth it?

If you have a missing tooth and are considering replacing it, you may have come across various options, including dental implants in the UK or “Turkey Teeth”

In recent years, the term “Turkey Teeth” has become popular in the world of dental tourism. But what exactly does it mean? Are they a good idea? How much do they cost? 

What Are Turkey Teeth?

“Turkey Teeth” refers to the practice of traveling to Turkey for dental work, particularly for cosmetic procedures like veneers, crowns, and implants. Turkey has gained a reputation for offering dental care at a fraction of the cost compared to countries like the UK. The term has become synonymous with affordable dental treatments that attract patients from all over the world.

Are Turkey Teeth Worth It?

One question that often arises is why implants are more expensive in the UK when you can get them cheaper in Turkey. You might be tempted by the low prices for implants in Turkey, but is it worth it? It’s essential to understand the potential downsides of going abroad for dental work. 

Cons of Going to Turkey for Your Teeth

 

1. Poor Quality Implants

One concern with dental implants in Turkey is the quality of the materials used. Many clinics might use lower-grade implants to cut costs. These implants may not meet the rigorous standards set by regulatory bodies in the UK, which can lead to various complications:

  • Poor quality implants can degrade faster, causing the implant to fail prematurely.
  • Low-grade materials may not integrate well with the bone, leading to implant rejection or failure.

2. Inadequate Equipment and Sterilisation

High-quality equipment and stringent sterilisation protocols are crucial in any medical procedure. In Turkey, some clinics might not adhere to the same strict sterilisation standards as in the UK:

  • Infection Risks: Inadequate sterilisation can lead to infections, which can be severe and difficult to treat.
  • Cross-Contamination: Poor sterilisation practices can result in cross-contamination between patients, increasing the risk of transmitting infections.

3. Improper Placement

The expertise of the dental surgeon is critical in the success of an implant. In Turkey, you might encounter:

  • Lack of Expertise: Some clinics may employ less experienced dentists who might not have the necessary skills to perform the procedure correctly.
  • Incorrect Placement: Improperly placed implants can cause severe complications, such as:
  • Infections: If the implant is not placed correctly, it can create spaces where bacteria can thrive.
  • Nerve Damage: Incorrect placement can damage surrounding nerves, leading to chronic pain or numbness
  • Un Restorable – Poorly placed implants mean the final crowns will have a poor design, which will reduce the lifespan of the implant as bacteria will get trapped around it.

4. No Refunds for Botched Procedures

Another significant risk is the financial aspect:

  • If the procedure goes wrong, many clinics in Turkey do not offer refunds or corrective surgery.
  • Fixing a botched implant procedure can be incredibly costly and complicated, often requiring multiple corrective surgeries.

5. Lack of Healing Time

The healing process is crucial for the success of dental implants. In the UK, there is a structured timeline to allow proper healing:

  • Rushed Procedures: In Turkey, some clinics might rush the procedure, not allowing sufficient time for healing between steps.
  • Higher Failure Rates: Without adequate healing time, the risk of implant failure increases significantly.

6. Unregulated Clinics

Regulation and oversight ensure that clinics maintain high standards of care:

  • Regulatory Differences: Clinics in Turkey may not be subject to the same strict regulations as those in the UK.
  • Variable Standards: The lack of consistent regulatory oversight means the quality of care can vary widely between clinics.

Additional Considerations

Before deciding to get dental implants in Turkey, here are some other factors to consider:

1. Follow-Up Care

  • Limited Follow-Up: Post-operative care is crucial for the success of dental implants. In Turkey, follow-up care might be limited or non-existent.
  • Travel Issues: Traveling back and forth for follow-up appointments can be costly and time-consuming.

2. Legal Recourse

  • Legal Complications: Pursuing legal action in a foreign country can be challenging if something goes wrong. The legal protections available to you in the UK might not apply in Turkey.

While the lower cost of dental implants in Turkey can be tempting, the potential risks and complications can far outweigh the initial savings. Poor quality materials, inadequate sterilisation, improper placement, lack of healing time, and unregulated clinics all contribute to the potential for severe health issues and higher long-term costs. Additionally, limited follow-up care, communication barriers, and legal challenges add to the complexity and risk of getting implants abroad.

Investing in dental implants in the UK ensures you receive high-quality care, regulated standards, and comprehensive follow-up, ultimately providing better outcomes and peace of mind. If you’re considering dental implants, prioritising quality and safety by choosing a reputable UK dentist is the best decision for your long-term oral health.

Benefits of Getting Implants in the UK

Although having an implant can seem more costly upfront, it can save you money in the long run. Choosing a trustworthy UK dentist ensures:

  • High Standards of Care: UK clinics adhere to strict regulations and standards, reducing the risk of complications.
  • Quality Implants and Equipment: Only high-quality implants and equipment are used.
  • Comprehensive Aftercare: Continuous support and follow-up care are available if needed.
  • Lower Long-Term Costs: Fixing complications from cheaper implants abroad can be much more expensive, and many UK dentists are hesitant to correct issues from procedures done in Turkey.

UK implant packages

Our implant packages include all of the following:

  • Initial Consultation: Normally £50
  • Full Assessment & Planning: Including a 3D scan of teeth and gums, normally £100
  • CBCT Scan/3D Bone Scan: Normally £300
  • Special Implant Guided Stent: Normally £200
  • Osstem Implant: The world’s most placed dental implant, normally £1,000
  • Premium Porcelain Crown Including Abutment: Normally £1,000
  • All Necessary Appointments, X-Rays, and Antibiotics: Included

 

Conclusion

While dental implants in Turkey may seem like an affordable option, the risks involved outweigh the initial savings. In the UK, you are assured of high standards, quality materials, and comprehensive care, making it a safer and more cost-effective choice in the long run. We believe it’s not worth the risk of potential tooth loss, infections, and higher expenses that might come with choosing cheaper implants abroad. If you’re considering dental implants, investing in a reputable UK dentist is the best choice for your dental health.

Get in touch to find out more about dental implants.