Turkey Teeth: Everything You Need To Know About

Last updated on November 25th, 2023

The trend of Turkey teeth is growing remarkably fast as a result of the transformations shown on social media; especially on TikTok. Nowadays, you are extremely likely to see a social media icon shining bright with his/her equally bright teeth in Turkey. Fueled by merely lower prices at first, the trend is still rising in several ways now. People love the way their smiles can be changed in a very short time. They have gained back self-confidence after many years with bad teeth. However, things were not that bright for everyone. Unfortunately, some dental treatments and smile makeovers have ended in disappointment and regret. 

The failures in cosmetic dentistry have led people to question Turkey teeth. However, the mainstream complaints targeted Turkey teeth prices, which could hardly be attributed to improper dental care in Turkey. In fact, malpractice is possible everywhere regardless of the country and the price. According to the Global Survey Report 2022 by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), Turkey is among the top countries worldwide for cosmetic procedures. Additionally, OECD data for 2021 shows there are 39,851 dentists working in Turkey, ranking it 6th among OECD countries based on the number of professionally active dentists. What matters most is the qualifications of the dentist, technology, and tools. If it is a dental clinic, looking for institutional reliability and liabilities are good places to look into. 

In this post, you will learn everything needed to understand the trend of Turkey teeth and have a broader understanding of the essential factors to be considered before getting a dental treatment. In essence, we are not promising that you will feel safer, but you will learn how to feel more reassured. Here we go!

What Is Meant By Turkey Teeth?

Turkey teeth is a term with multiple connotations in the realm of cosmetic dentistry. Primarily, it refers to the trend of individuals traveling to Turkey for dental procedures such as veneers or implants. This trend is driven by factors like cost-effectiveness, the high quality of dental care in Turkey, the aesthetic appeal of the treatments, and the added bonus of tourism. For a deeper understanding of such aesthetic transformations, you might find our blog post on the ‘Hollywood Smile‘ insightful, which delves into similar cosmetic dental procedures that aim for a perfect and bright smile.

The process typically involves filing down someone’s natural tooth and placing crowns or veneers on top. The result is often teeth that are super white and perfectly square in shape, a look that has gained popularity through social media. Despite the allure, the term ‘Turkey teeth’ is also used sarcastically to imply that patients are sacrificing their natural and healthy teeth for artificial, albeit aesthetically pleasing ones.

Moreover, “Turkey Teeth” can sometimes refer to the outcomes of failed dental treatments in Turkey, especially involving veneers or dental crowns. These failures are often attributed to excessive tooth filing, overzealous tooth reduction, aggressive dental procedures, or complications arising post-treatment. While Turkey is known for its cost-effective and popularity of dental tourism, as highlighted by the 2022 Global Survey Report by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) and OECD data showing a large number of practicing dentists in the country, the phrase ‘Turkey teeth’ underscores the importance of careful consideration and research before undergoing such transformative dental procedures.

Why Is Turkey Cheap For Dental Treatment?

Here are a few reasons why dental treatment in Turkey is so much cheaper than in many other countries:

• Lower living and labor costs: Dentists and clinic staff get lower wages and salaries, leading to lower labor costs compared to the USA and Europe.
• Lower operating costs: Expenses for the facility, utilities, rent, etc. are much cheaper in Turkey.
• Government support and incentives: As the main destination for worldwide health tourism, government support and incentives make it more affordable with lower taxes.
• Currency exchange rate: The exchange rate of Turkish lira against foreign currencies makes it cheaper for international patients.
• The high number of dental clinics: The high number of dental clinics in Turkey leads to competitive pricing, eventually reducing the prices.

This video explains the 5 reasons why dental treatment in Turkey is affordable.

Of course, there are always risks associated with medical tourism, so it’s important to do your research before you book a trip to Turkey for dental treatment.

Is It Safe To Have Teeth Done In Turkey?

The realm of dental cosmetic treatments has seen a global increase in popularity, with Turkey emerging as a key destination for these procedures. Data from the Turkish Statistical Institute reveals a significant increase in the number of patients receiving health services in Turkey under health tourism and tourist health programs. In 2020, the number was 407,423, which rose to 670,730 in 2021, and further increased to 1,258,382 in 2022. Notably, in just the first two quarters of 2023, a total of 746,290 individuals have already sought healthcare services in Turkey, including those for dental enhancements.

The 2022 Global Survey Report by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) highlights Turkey’s prominent position in the world of cosmetic procedures. According to the report, Turkey, with a total number of 1,097,054 aesthetic/cosmetic procedures, is the 5th country in the world in this field, following the US, Brazil, Japan, and Mexico. Along with these countries, Turkey ranks among the top globally in attracting the highest proportion of foreign patients for cosmetic treatments, including dental cosmetics. Complementing this global recognition, OECD data from 2021 reveals that Turkey is also notable for its dental healthcare infrastructure. With 39,851 dentists, Turkey ranks 6th among OECD countries in terms of the number of professionally active dentists. This robust dental workforce not only underscores Turkey’s capability to deliver high-quality dental care but also contributes significantly to its standing in the cosmetic surgery sector, particularly in dental aesthetics.

To gain further insight into the safety and standards of dental procedures in Turkey, prospective patients can explore a wealth of resources. Many Turkish dental clinics offer comprehensive information on their websites about treatments, safety protocols, and patient care standards. Additionally, firsthand accounts from patients who have undergone dental treatments in Turkey provide valuable perspectives. For instance, you can find a lot of information on the clinics’ websites about getting dental treatment abroad and watch some Turkey teeth reviews.

In this video, a patient explains his dental treatment experience in Turkey.

In summary, the combination of Turkey’s global standing in dental cosmetics, the expertise of its dental professionals, and the positive experiences shared by international patients contribute to a reassuring picture of safety and quality in Turkish dental care.

Turkey Teeth Gone Wrong: Is It So? 

The phrase ‘Turkey Teeth Gone Wrong’ often surfaces in discussions about dental tourism in Turkey. It’s crucial to dissect this topic with a balanced perspective, acknowledging both successes and potential risks.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that the affordability of dental treatments in Turkey doesn’t inherently imply inferior quality. Many dental clinics in Turkey are renowned for providing high-quality services, leveraging advanced technology and skilled professionals. However, like any medical field, there are instances of unsatisfactory outcomes, which might be the source of this phrase.

In some cases, patients have reported negative experiences with their cosmetic dental procedures in Turkey. These incidents, while unfortunate, should be viewed in context. They often arise from specific situations like miscommunication, mismatched expectations, or, in rare cases, procedural errors. It’s unfair and inaccurate to generalize these individual cases as a reflection of the entire dental industry in Turkey.

It’s also essential to understand that the success of dental procedures hinges on several factors, not just location. These include the qualifications and experience of the dental professionals, the quality of the dental materials used, and the technology employed in the procedures. A highly skilled dentist, using top-grade materials and modern technology, is likely to deliver excellent results, regardless of geographic location.

However, patients should be aware that risks are inherent in any medical procedure, irrespective of where it is performed. It’s crucial for anyone considering dental work abroad to conduct thorough research. This includes vetting the clinic and the dentist’s credentials, understanding the procedure details, and being aware of post-treatment care.

In conclusion, while there have been instances of ‘Turkey Teeth’ procedures not meeting expectations, these should not overshadow the many positive outcomes achieved by numerous patients. High-quality dental care is not confined to any single country, and Turkey is no exception. As with any medical treatment, success largely depends on choosing the right professionals and being well-informed about the procedure.

Questions To Ask Before Having Dental Treatment Abroad

Embarking on a journey for dental treatment abroad involves more than just booking a flight. It’s a process that requires careful planning and consideration, particularly regarding your health and safety. To ensure a well-informed and safe experience, it’s vital to have a clear and concise understanding of the entire dental tourism process, even before you begin your journey.

It’s common to overlook some aspects, especially if this is your first time seeking dental treatment abroad. To assist you in visualizing the procedure and making informed decisions, here are key questions you should have clear answers to before leaving home:

1. Clinic or Health Tourism Agency: Is the service provider a dental clinic or a health tourism agency? (Preferably, choose a dental clinic.)
2. Appointment and Treatment Plan: What does the appointment and treatment plan entail?
3. Type of Cosmetic Procedure: In cosmetic procedures, what kind of restoration will be used? Crown, full veneer, veneer, or laminate veneer? (Refer to our latest blog for differences.)
4. Implant Brands: If the treatment involves implants, which brands are used?
5. Clinic Accreditation: Is the clinic registered with or regulated by a recognized authority?
6. Dentist Information: Who will be your dentist, and what are their qualifications?
7. Laboratory Facilities: Does the clinic have an in-house lab? Can you meet with the technician?
8. Language and Communication: Does the clinic staff speak your language, or is a translator provided?
9. Risks and Complications: What are the potential risks, and how does the clinic manage complications?
10. Follow-Up Appointments: When is the follow-up for procedures like crown fittings?
11. Guarantee and Aftercare: What are the clinic’s policies on guarantee and aftercare?
12. References and Testimonials: How can you access references or testimonials from previous patients?
13. Consistency Check: Assess the clinic’s consistency. Are their social media messages coherent? Do reviews seem genuine? Are the before/after photos authentic?
14. Travel and Accommodation Assistance: Does the clinic provide or assist with travel and accommodation arrangements?

For more detailed insights on these questions, plus additional tips and tricks, be sure to read our comprehensive guide: “Questions To Ask Before Choosing A Dental Clinic Abroad – Part 1“.

In this video, an Irish patient describes her dental treatment experience in Turkey, including the stages of arrival, consultation, preparation, lab work, rehearsal, and adjustment.

FAQs About Turkey Teeth

Which Influencers Get Their Teeth Done In Turkey? 

Influencers such as Katie Price, Jack Fincham, Jack Reid, and Laura Ivanova had their teeth done in Turkey.

What are the risks of Turkey teeth?

Risks of Turkey teeth include potential for subpar work, complications from aggressive procedures, and post-treatment issues.

Are Turkish Dentists Safe?

Registered Turkish dentists in Ministry of Health-regulated clinics are known to provide safe dental treatments.

How much are Turkey Teeth?

Turkey teeth are typically 60-70% more affordable compared to Western countries

SOURCES

https://www.isaps.org/discover/about-isaps/global-statistics/reports-and-press-releases/global-survey-2022-full-report-and-press-releases/
https://www.isaps.org/media/a0qfm4h3/isaps-global-survey_2022.pdf
https://stats.oecd.org/index.aspx?queryid=30177
https://www.ushas.com.tr/en/health-tourism-data/