BIDC Bangkok vs. Maltepe Istanbul: Which is Best for Dental Treatment Abroad?

Dental tourism continues to grow in popularity as patients seek high-quality dental care at more affordable prices than those available in their home countries. With potential savings of 50-85% compared to Western prices, it’s no wonder that thousands of patients travel overseas each year for dental treatment. Among the most sought-after destinations, Thailand and Turkey have emerged as leading contenders, each offering unique advantages for international patients.

This comprehensive comparison examines two prominent clinics that specifically cater to international dental tourists: Bangkok International Dental Center (BIDC) in Thailand and Maltepe Dental Clinic in Istanbul, Turkey. What makes this comparison particularly interesting is how these clinics have positioned themselves to serve different geographic markets. BIDC is a favorite for Australian and Asian patients, while Maltepe has developed a unique dual-location model with facilities in both London and Istanbul.

Whether you’re considering dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, or complex restorative work, understanding the differences between these two renowned clinics will help you make an informed decision that balances quality, cost, convenience, and overall experience.

Key Takeaways

If you’re considering dental treatment abroad and trying to decide between Bangkok International Dental Center (BIDC) and Maltepe Dental Clinic Istanbul, here are the essential points to help you make an informed decision:

At a Glance Comparison

Factor	BIDC Bangkok	Maltepe Istanbul	Advantage
Basic Implant Cost	~$1,600	~$530/£420	Maltepe
Flight Time from UK	11-12 hours	4 hours	Maltepe
Flight Time from Australia	9 hours	14+ hours	BIDC
UK Aftercare	None	Full London clinic	Maltepe
International Accreditation	JCI accredited	Multiple certifications	BIDC
Languages	English, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic	English, German, French, Spanish, Russian	Depends on patient origin

Best Choice For:

Choose Bangkok International Dental Center if:

• You’re traveling from Australia, New Zealand, or the Asia-Pacific region
• JCI accreditation is important to your decision-making process
• You speak Chinese, Japanese, or Arabic
• You want to combine treatment with a Southeast Asian vacation
• You prefer a clinic with 22+ years of experience, specifically with international patients

Choose Maltepe Dental Clinic, Istanbul if:

• You’re traveling from the UK, Europe, or North America
• You want the lowest possible prices for dental implants and treatments
• You value having aftercare available in London without returning abroad
• You need multilingual support in European languages
• You’re interested in experiencing Istanbul’s unique East-meets-West culture

Key Similarities:

• Both clinics specialize in serving international dental tourists
• Both maintain in-house dental laboratories for custom prosthetics
• Both provide significant savings (70-85%) compared to Western dental prices
• Both use advanced digital dentistry techniques and 3D planning
• Both have strong positive reviews from international patients

Important Considerations:

• Geographic Accessibility: Your home location has a significant impact on travel time and convenience. UK patients can reach Istanbul in 4 hours, compared to 11-12 hours to Bangkok.
• Aftercare Access: Maltepe’s full-service London clinic provides a significant advantage for UK patients concerned about follow-up care.
• Cost Difference: While both offer substantial savings over Western prices, Maltepe appears to have a significant edge in pricing across most procedures.
• Cultural Experience: Bangkok offers a Southeast Asian cultural experience, while Istanbul provides a unique blend of European and Middle Eastern influences.

Bangkok International Dental Center: Overview

Bangkok International Dental Center (BIDC) has established itself as a premier destination for dental tourism in Thailand, attracting patients from around the world who seek high-quality dental care at competitive prices. With a strong focus on international standards and patient experience, BIDC has become one of Asia’s most recognized dental facilities.

History and Accreditations

Founded in 2003, BIDC made history as the first private dental center in Thailand and the Asian Economic Community (AEC) to receive the prestigious Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation in 2012. This American-based accreditation represents the gold standard in global healthcare, ensuring that patients receive care meeting rigorous international safety and quality standards.

The clinic’s credentials include JCI accreditation (renewed four times since 2012), ISO 9001:2015 certification for its quality management system, recognition from the Global Clinic Rating (GCR), and the Thailand Medical Tourism Awards. This commitment to international standards has positioned BIDC as a trusted provider for patients from Australia, Europe, North America, and across Asia seeking dental treatment abroad.

Facilities and Technology

BIDC operates multiple branches in Bangkok, with its flagship facility on Sukhumvit Road serving as an international dental hospital featuring over 30 modern treatment rooms equipped with state-of-the-art technology. The center’s technological investments include digital panoramic X-rays, 3D CT scanning, CAD/CAM systems for same-day restorations, digital smile design, and laser dentistry.

BIDC’s facilities are designed specifically with international patients in mind, featuring multilingual signage, internationally trained staff, and amenities that cater to the needs of dental tourists spending extended time at the clinic.

Pricing Structure

BIDC offers transparent pricing that represents significant savings compared to Western countries while maintaining high-quality standards:

Procedure	BIDC Price (THB)	BIDC Price (USD)	UK/US Price (USD)	Savings
Dental Implant (Straumann)	54,000	~$1,600	$3,000-$5,000	50-70%
Porcelain Crown	13,000-18,000	~$400-$550	$1,000-$1,500	60-70%
Porcelain Veneer	18,000-25,000	~$550-$750	$1,000-$2,000	45-70%
Root Canal Treatment	8,000-15,000	~$240-$450	$700-$1,500	65-80%
All-on-4 Implants (per arch)	250,000-350,000	~$7,500-$10,500	$20,000-$30,000	60-75%

BIDC offers various implant systems at different price points, allowing patients to choose based on their budget and preferences, from SIC Swiss titanium implants (most affordable) to premium options like Straumann and Nobel Biocare.

Services for International Patients

BIDC has developed comprehensive services specifically for international patients, including multilingual support (English, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic), dedicated international patient coordinators, travel assistance, expedited treatment timelines for dental tourists, telemedicine consultations, and help with insurance claims and medical documentation.

The center’s approach to international patient care includes detailed treatment planning prior to arrival, efficient scheduling to minimize time spent abroad, and comprehensive aftercare instructions to ensure a seamless return home. Many treatments are completed in 1-2 visits over 5-10 days, making it feasible for patients traveling specifically for dental care.

Maltepe Dental Clinic Istanbul: Overview

Maltepe Dental Clinic has established itself as a leading destination for dental tourism in Istanbul, Turkey, with a strong focus on serving international patients seeking high-quality dental care at competitive prices. What sets Maltepe apart is its unique dual-location model with full-service clinics in both London and Istanbul.

History and Reputation

With over 21 years of experience in the dental field, Maltepe Dental Clinic has built a solid reputation for excellence in dental care, particularly in implantology and cosmetic dentistry. The clinic has treated more than 14,000 international patients from 85+ countries, demonstrating their global appeal and expertise in managing diverse patient needs.

The clinic’s credentials include six national and international inspection certificates, a 4.8 Google review rating with over 300 genuine reviews, and a 4.9 Trustpilot score with 122 verified patient reviews. Their extensive online presence, featuring before-and-after galleries and video testimonials, allows prospective patients to gain confidence in their services before making the journey to Istanbul.

Locations and Facilities

London Clinic: Maltepe Dental Clinic operates a full-fledged dental clinic in London, not just a consultation office. This comprehensive facility allows UK patients to receive initial consultations and diagnostics, treatment planning, full dental treatments for less complex procedures, complete aftercare and follow-up services, and emergency dental care. This full-service London clinic offers a significant advantage for UK patients, providing continuity of care without the need for international travel.

Istanbul Main Clinic: The primary treatment center in Istanbul features modern treatment rooms equipped with state-of-the-art technology, an in-house dental laboratory for custom prosthetics and immediate adjustments, advanced imaging capabilities, and comfortable patient areas designed for international visitors.

Pricing Structure

Maltepe Dental Clinic offers competitive pricing for their dental procedures, with costs clearly displayed in multiple currencies for international patients’ convenience:

Procedure	Istanbul Price (€)	Istanbul Price (£)	UK Price (£)	Savings
Dental Implant	€494	£420	£2,000-£3,000	Up to 85%
Implant Abutment	€150	£130	£500-£700	Up to 80%
Porcelain Crown	€190	£160	£500-£800	Up to 80%
Porcelain Veneer	€250	£210	£650-£950	Up to 75%
All-on-4 (per arch)	From €3,500	From £3,000	£15,000-£25,000	Up to 85%

These prices represent savings of 70-85% compared to UK dental costs, making Maltepe one of the most cost-effective options for international patients seeking dental treatment abroad.

Services for International Patients

Maltepe Dental Clinic has developed comprehensive services specifically for international patients, including multilingual support (English, German, French, Spanish, and Russian), dedicated international patient coordinators, travel assistance, expedited treatment timelines, telemedicine consultations, and documentation assistance.

The clinic’s hybrid care model, with the London facility providing both pre-treatment consultations and post-treatment follow-ups, represents a significant advantage for UK patients concerned about the continuity of care when choosing dental treatment abroad.

In the video, a couple from the USA shares their positive experience at Maltepe Dental Clinic, where they both received dental work, including veneers.

Comparative Analysis: Bangkok International Dental Center vs Maltepe Dental Clinic

When choosing between dental treatment providers abroad, a direct comparison of key factors can help patients make informed decisions.

Comprehensive Comparison Table

Comparison Factor	Bangkok International Dental Center	Maltepe Dental Clinic	Key Difference
Years in Operation	Since 2003 (22+ years)	21+ years	Comparable
International Accreditation	JCI accredited since 2012	Six national and international certificates	BIDC’s JCI accreditation
Secondary Location	None	Full-service London clinic	Maltepe’s UK presence
In-house Laboratory	Yes	Yes	Comparable
Flight Time from UK	11-12 hours	4 hours	Maltepe significantly closer
Flight Time from Australia	9 hours	14+ hours	BIDC significantly closer
Single Implant Cost	~$1,600 (Straumann)	~$530/£420 ()	Maltepe more affordable
All-on-4 Cost (per arch)	~$7,500-$10,500	From ~$3,800/£3,000	Maltepe more affordable
Languages Spoken	English, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic	English, German, French, Spanish, Russian	Different language specializations
Aftercare Location	Bangkok only	London and Istanbul	Maltepe’s UK aftercare advantage

Travel Logistics Comparison

The travel experience differs significantly between the two destinations:

Bangkok International Dental Center:

• Flight Time from UK: 11-12 hours
• Flight Time from Australia: 9 hours
• Visa Requirements: Tourist visa required for most Western visitors
• Local Transportation: Extensive public transport, taxis, clinic shuttle services
• Climate: Tropical (hot and humid year-round)

Maltepe Dental Clinic:

• Flight Time from UK: 4 hours
• Flight Time from Australia: 14+ hours
• Visa Requirements: E-visa for UK citizens, varies for others
• Local Transportation: Comprehensive public transport, clinic transfer services
• Climate: Mediterranean (mild winters, hot summers)

Patient Experiences and Testimonials

Bangkok International Dental Center Patient Experiences

BIDC has built a strong reputation among international patients, particularly from Australia, New Zealand, and the Asia-Pacific region. Patient testimonials frequently highlight several common themes:

Aspect	Patient Feedback
Staff Professionalism	“Dentists were highly skilled and professional, comparable to any Western clinic”
Facility Quality	“State-of-the-art equipment in an immaculate, modern facility”
Cost Savings	“Saved over $15,000 on my full-mouth restoration compared to Australian quotes”
Communication	“No language barriers – all staff spoke excellent English”

Sample Patient Journey:

“As an Australian patient, I researched extensively before choosing BIDC for my dental implants. The initial online consultation was thorough, and they provided a detailed treatment plan and quote. I spent 7 days in Bangkok for the first phase (extractions and implant placement), staying at a nearby hotel they recommended. After 4 months of healing at home, I returned for a 5-day visit to have my permanent crowns fitted. The total cost, including flights and accommodation for both trips, was still less than half the Australian quote.”

Maltepe Dental Clinic Patient Experiences

Maltepe Dental Clinic’s patient feedback, from both European and Australian dental tourists, consistently mentions:

Aspect	Patient Feedback
Value for Money	“Exceptional quality at about 25% of UK prices”
London Clinic Advantage	“Completed my full treatment in just two visits to Istanbul.”
Treatment Speed	“My Australian dentist commented on how well the bite and how good the quality was.”
Personalized Care	“Felt like a valued patient, not just another tourist”
Australian Perspective	“My Australian dentist commented on how well the bite and how good the quality was”

Sample UK Patient Journey:

“As a UK resident, I first visited Maltepe’s London clinic for consultation and scans. Two weeks later, I flew to Istanbul for a 6-day visit, where I had three implants placed. After 4 months of healing, I returned for a 4-day visit to have my permanent crowns fitted. When I had a minor issue with one crown a month later, I simply visited their London clinic rather than flying back to Istanbul. This convenience, combined with savings of around £6,000 compared to UK prices, made the entire experience excellent value.”

Recent Australian Patient Experience:

“I was quoted $76,000 AUD to have this work in Australia. At Maltepe, it was just under $10,000 AUD. I originally went thinking I was going to end up with crowns, but the amazing dentist was able to do veneers instead. The shape matches my natural teeth and the bite is spot on. I have only had 1 issue which was a crown coming loose from the implant. I do not attribute this to Maltepe, but instead the dentist who inserted the original implant in India, at an odd angle. I flew back to Turkey to have this repaired as I had dental tourism insurance which covered flights and accommodation. Maltepe seen me straight away, made a new crown and fitted it, free of charge. 10/10 recommend Maltepe. Their work is to a high standard and my Australian dentist commented during a routine clean last month on how well the bite and how good the quality was. Excellent service, excellent people and excellent price. You will not regret and Istanbul is one of the world’s most beautiful cities!” – Mathew Dickinson, Australian patient (October 2025)

In this video, Dina from the USA shares her positive experience at Maltepe Dental Clinic in Istanbul, where she underwent a veneer procedure two years ago. She had 10 veneers placed on both her upper and lower teeth and expresses her satisfaction with the results, noting compliments from friends, family, and even strangers about her bright smile. Dina conducted extensive research before choosing the clinic, initially considering options in the U.S. but finding them too expensive. She highlights the comfort and professionalism of the clinic, mentioning a quick and painless process. Dina maintains her dental routine and reports that her veneers have remained in excellent condition, prompting her to refer other family members and friends interested in getting veneers as well.

Decision-Making Guide

Choosing between Bangkok International Dental Center and Maltepe Dental Clinic, Istanbul, depends on your specific priorities and circumstances. Consider these factors when making your decision:

Priority Assessment Checklist

If This Is Your Priority	Consider This Clinic
Shortest travel time from UK/Europe	Maltepe Istanbul
Shortest travel time from Australia/NZ	BIDC Bangkok
Best value for Australian patients	Both clinics (compare quotes)
Lowest possible treatment cost	Maltepe Istanbul
JCI accreditation	BIDC Bangkok
UK-based aftercare	Maltepe Istanbul
Asian language support	BIDC Bangkok
European language support	Maltepe Istanbul
Southeast Asian cultural experience	BIDC Bangkok
European/Middle Eastern cultural experience	Maltepe Istanbul

Questions to Ask During Consultation

To make the most informed choice, consider asking these questions during your initial consultation:

• “What implant brand will you use for my case, and what is its warranty period?”
• “Does the quoted price include all necessary procedures, including any potential bone grafting?”
• “What happens if I experience complications after returning to my home country?”
• “How many visits will my specific case require, and what is the expected total treatment time?”
• “Who specifically will perform my procedure, and what are their qualifications and experience?”

Conclusion

Both Bangkok International Dental Center and Maltepe Dental Clinic, Istanbul, offer high-quality dental treatment at a fraction of Western prices. Your choice between these two excellent options will likely depend on your geographic location and specific priorities:

If you’re traveling from Australia, New Zealand, or the Asia-Pacific regions, BIDC in Bangkok may be your preferred choice due to shorter flight times, JCI accreditation, and extensive experience with patients from these regions.

If you’re traveling from the UK, Europe, or North America, Maltepe Dental Clinic in Istanbul may better meet your needs due to geographic proximity, lower prices, and the unique advantage of a full-service London clinic for aftercare.

Ultimately, dental tourism offers an opportunity to access high-quality dental treatment at a fraction of the cost of Western prices. By thoroughly researching your options and considering both clinical and practical factors, you can make a choice that delivers the dental care you need without the prohibitive costs typically associated with treatment in Western countries.