Travelling abroad for cut-price ‘Turkey Teeth’ is a growing trend. But is the lure of sun, sand and a spot of dental tourism all it’s cracked up to be? Read our guide to the pros and cons of getting dental treatment abroad to find out.
Can I Go Abroad To Get My Teeth Done?
Dental tourism has grown in popularity over the last few years, to the point that it has now become a societal norm and a major business. Is it any wonder when you consider that 91% of NHS practices across England aren’t accepting new adult patients, according to The Guardian? Combine that with the fact that some relatively costly treatments, such as dental implants, are unavailable on the NHS. Not to mention the lure of a full package holiday, including flights, accommodation and dental treatments. And you can quickly see the appeal.
Free movement across the EU opened up a range of options for Brits seeking dentistry abroad, including Hungary, Poland, Spain, Germany, the Czech Republic, Croatia and Denmark. Turkey is another trendy destination, as are more far-flung locations like Dubai, Thailand and Mexico. According to Dental Holiday, the UK arm of Slovakia-based Smile Clinic, the main treatments British holidaymakers request are dental implants, bridgework, ceramic crowns, porcelain veneers and one-day treatments like fillings and teeth whitening.
The Pros Of Getting Your Teeth Done Abroad
There are some obvious advantages to getting dental treatment abroad, including:
Cost
Cost is undoubtedly the biggest appeal of getting dental treatment abroad. Some estimates suggest that some more expensive dental treatments – like crowns, veneers and dental implants abroad – can be 50-70% cheaper.
Wait Time
It is not uncommon for a dentist abroad to be able to treat a patient in a fraction of the time it might take in the UK, with no waiting list or delays. This is undoubtedly a benefit if you can’t face waiting for treatment.
The Cons Of Getting Your Teeth Done Abroad
However, there are some significant cons of getting dental treatment abroad that must be considered, including:
Quality Standards
While the General Dental Council regulates British dentists, overseas dentists are not always held to such standards. Unfortunately, that means potentially inferior qualifications, equipment, facilities and treatments.
Problems When You Return Home / Follow Up Appointments
So-called ‘Turkey Teeth’ can go wrong. If that happens, you may have to travel back to the foreign clinic or find a doctor in the UK to carry out remedial work. Either way, it could prove much costlier than you bargained for.
Communication/Language
A language barrier can be a major stumbling block if an issue arises. You want to understand the problem, its effects and the solution. But complex issues become even more complicated when language gets in the way.
Conclusion
Going abroad for your dental treatment can seem like a more affordable, fun-filled alternative to waiting for a comparably more expensive treatment here in the UK. However, you get what you pay for with dental treatments. Having your treatment done in the UK gives you the assurance and peace of mind that your procedure will be carried out by a highly qualified professional who speaks your language and adheres to strict standards.
When it comes to dental treatments, if you buy cheap, you might find yourself paying twice. Not only from a monetary point of view, with potentially costly remedial work on top of your initial treatment and travel costs, but with your health as well. So for the safest, most comprehensive treatments and aftercare, look no further than Ollie & Darsh. As Liverpool’s leading dentist, you can be sure of outstanding service from start to finish. And, with 0% finance available across all our treatments, you can spread the cost, so you don’t have to risk a trip abroad.
If you would like more information about our dental treatments or to book an appointment, please contact us on 0151 236 6578