Cosmetic dentistry is a growing industry that aims to enhance the appearance of the teeth and mouth through a variety of treatments such as veneers, bonding, teeth straightening, and teeth whitening. In recent years, there has been a trend of people travelling abroad, particularly to countries like Turkey, in search of cheaper options for these procedures being tempted by irresistible savings of up to 70% compared to UK treatments, as well as the all-inclusive holiday experience. However, while the lower price tag may be tempting, it is important to carefully consider the risks and limitations of seeking treatment abroad. This blog post will focus on the comparison of cosmetic dentistry in London versus Turkey.
While it is true that dental work in Turkey can often be obtained at a lower cost, there are numerous factors to consider beyond just the price. These factors include the quality and safety of the treatment, the qualifications and experience of the dental professionals, and the availability of follow-up care in the event of any complications. By weighing these considerations, individuals can make an informed decision about where to seek cosmetic dental treatment.
So before you are lured by the lower price tag, the all-inclusive “holiday experience,” and the risk of being swept up in the “Turkey Teeth” social phenomena, read on to see why staying in the UK and particularly why cosmetic dentistry in London could be better for your teeth and your bank balance.
The dangers of travelling abroad for cosmetic treatment
Seeking cosmetic treatment abroad can pose a number of dangers and risks to patients. Some of these dangers include:
- Risk of subpar or even dangerous treatment: It is important to carefully research and choose a reputable and qualified provider for any medical or dental treatment. However, when seeking treatment abroad, it can be more difficult to verify the qualifications and track record of the provider. There have been cases of patients receiving subpar or even dangerous treatment at facilities abroad, leading to serious health consequences.
- Difficulty in follow-up care or addressing complications: Even when the initial treatment goes smoothly, complications can arise after returning home. Without the ability to easily communicate with the provider or access follow-up care, it can be challenging to address any issues that may arise.
- Language barriers and potential for communication issues: Language barriers can create difficulties in understanding and communicating about the treatment, leading to misunderstandings and potential miscommunication.
- Lack of regulation in the medical tourism industry: The medical tourism industry is largely unregulated, meaning there may be little oversight or recourse in the event of a negative outcome. This can make it difficult for patients to seek compensation or justice in the case of defective or dangerous treatment.
Dr Sahil Patel, a cosmetic dentist in London from Marylebone Smile Clinic says that “Sooner or later, most patients with Turkey teeth will need a lot of implants fitted”. Even without implants, the following procedures may be needed to improve the appearance of your teeth:
- Teeth whitening
- Cosmetic porcelain veneers
- Teeth straightening
- Composite bonding
The Bristol Post says this is because “rather than just getting a set of shiny new teeth, people are instead committing themselves to a lifetime of unnecessary, expensive and painful treatments.
Many people reportedly go into a clinic and ask for veneers – a wafer-thin covering for the front of the tooth – but come away with a far more invasive outcome like crowns, where the surgeon will file down the existing teeth and add a fake tooth cap. And dentists say that while you may save money in the short-term by travelling abroad for the treatment, it could end up costing thousands as the procedures can cause damage to your natural teeth if not carried out properly.
When veneers are carried out by an unqualified or inexperienced person, they can cause irreversible damage to the natural tooth, and dentists have warned against the damaging and costly procedures.”
The benefits of staying in the UK for cosmetic dentistry
As you can begin to see, there are many disadvantages to going abroad for cosmetic dentistry. Ultimately, if there are any issues with your treatment once you arrive home, it can be difficult to seek appropriate aftercare as returning for an appointment in a different country can be costly and inconvenient.
Instead, it may be a wiser choice to remain in the UK for your cosmetic dentistry. Here’s why you should consider the UK:
- Access to highly trained and qualified dentists: The UK has a rigorous system for training and certifying dental professionals, ensuring that patients have access to highly skilled and qualified practitioners.
- A regulated healthcare system that prioritises patient safety: The UK also has a regulated healthcare system that prioritises patient safety and quality of care. This can provide peace of mind and confidence in the treatment received.
- Ability to easily communicate with and receive follow-up care from your dentist: By staying in the UK for treatment, patients can easily communicate with their dentist and have access to follow-up care if needed. This can be particularly important in the case of any complications or issues that may arise.
- A wider range of options for treatment and materials: UK dentists may have access to a wider range of treatment options and materials, allowing for more personalised and effective care.
The advantages of choosing a cosmetic dentist in London specifically
London is renowned for its world-class medical and dental care, attracting top professionals and the latest technology. This reputation can provide added confidence in the quality of treatment received. In terms of technology and techniques, London is home to leading dental professionals and clinics that have access to the most advanced treatments and materials, resulting in more effective and long-lasting results. Additionally, many dental clinics in London offer a wide range of services, including cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, and implant surgery, ensuring that patients have access to comprehensive care.
Let’s not forget that London is also home to Harley Street where you’ll find some of the top UK dentists. Harley Street is a street in London known for its high concentration of private medical and dental practices, particularly those specialising in medical and dental treatments that are not generally available on the National Health Service (NHS). Located in the Marylebone neighbourhood of central London, Harley Street has a long history as a centre of medical excellence, dating back to the 18th century. Many of the doctors and dentists practising on Harley Street are highly qualified specialists in their fields, and the street has a reputation for attracting the top medical professionals in the country.
London is also a diverse city with a wide range of cultural and linguistic backgrounds, making it a welcoming environment for patients from all over the world. Many dental clinics in London have staff who are fluent in multiple languages, making it easier for patients to communicate their needs and concerns. Furthermore, the city’s diverse population means that dental professionals have experience treating patients of all ethnicities and skin tones, ensuring that care is tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
Overall, the combination of top professionals, advanced technology and techniques, and a welcoming and diverse environment make London a premier destination for dental care.
Here are some of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures that can be carried out safely in London rather than travelling abroad:
Teeth whitening
A common cosmetic dentistry procedure in London is teeth whitening which involves using specific bleaching agents to lighten the colour of the teeth. It can be applied to eliminate stains and discolouration brought on by things like ageing, tobacco usage, specific meals, and beverages. A cosmetic dentist in London can whiten your teeth using professional-grade whitening chemicals in a safe and effective manner.
Porcelain veneers
Cosmetic porcelain veneers are tiny, individualised shells used to cover the front of teeth. They are made of porcelain, a robust and long-lasting kind of ceramic material. Porcelain veneers are used to enhance the teeth’s appearance and can be used to address a variety of aesthetic problems, such as:
- Teeth with nicks and fractures
- Discrepancies in the teeth
- Stains or discolourations that teeth whitening cannot remove
- Teeth with irregular or misshaped surfaces
- Either too few or too many teeth
A dental adhesive is used to affix porcelain veneers to the front surfaces of the teeth. They look natural and are stain-resistant, making them a popular option for cosmetic dental work.
Teeth straightening
Orthodontic treatment also referred to as teeth straightening, is a way to improve the alignment of the teeth and fix bite issues. It is frequently used to straighten teeth that are too far apart, crooked, or crowded. The smile can be made more attractive by straightening the teeth, which also makes it simpler to brush and floss, improving oral health.
Various types of teeth-straightening procedures are available, including:
Traditional metal braces: The most popular orthodontic procedure is using metal braces. They are made up of wire-connected metal brackets that are fastened to the teeth. To gradually straighten the teeth, the wire is gradually tightened. (Read my entire braces as an adult experience)
Clear aligners: A discrete substitute for conventional metal braces are clear aligners like Invisalign. As the teeth gradually realign, they are made of transparent plastic trays that fit over the teeth and are changed out every two weeks.
Ceramic braces: Ceramic braces resemble traditional metal braces but are less noticeable because they are made of clear or tooth-coloured ceramic material.
Lingual braces: Lingual braces resemble traditional metal braces but are attached to the back of the teeth, where they are hidden from view.
Composite bonding
Composite bonding, also known as dental bonding, is a procedure that involves applying a composite resin to the surface of a tooth in order to improve the tooth’s appearance. It can be used to repair chips, cracks, and other minor cosmetic flaws in the teeth. Altering the shape of the teeth or changing their colour can also be accomplished with its help, as can the closing of spaces between the teeth. The procedure can typically be finished during a single visit to the dentist’s office.
Final word on using a cosmetic dentist in London UK vs Turkey
In conclusion, it is important to carefully consider the risks and limitations of seeking cosmetic dental treatment abroad, particularly in countries like Turkey. While the lower price tag may be tempting, it is crucial to prioritise the quality and safety of the treatment, as well as the qualifications and experience of dental professionals. Additionally, the ability to easily communicate with and receive follow-up care from your dentist is important in the event of any complications or issues that may arise. What could start as an affordable way to get your teeth improved, could end up being very costly if you receive substandard procedures and have to pay for revisions in the UK, or for extra flights and expenses to return to Turkey.
By choosing a cosmetic dentist in the UK, specifically London, patients can have peace of mind and confidence in the high-quality care they will receive. London is known for its world-class medical and dental care. Additionally, the availability of cutting-edge technology and techniques can provide patients with access to the most advanced treatments and materials, leading to more effective and long-lasting results. And of course, if you have any issues, it will be much easier to return to your dentist in the UK when you live in the UK for any follow-up appointments, aftercare treatment or advice.
Before you go…
Having good-looking teeth can drastically improve your smile and confidence. But how can you look after your teeth yourself to keep them looking their best? Here are some further resources on how you can care for your teeth and keep them looking great: