The Dangers of Turkey, Are They Worth It?

You may have heard of the new trend called ‘Turkey teeth’ which involves people travelling to Turkey to get cut-price crowns. However, what a lot of people don’t know is that it involves shaving down 60-70% of the natural tooth before a crown is fitted.

What Are Turkey Teeth?

Patients who are unhappy with their smile often choose to have veneers fitted to improve the appearance of their teeth. This can be an expensive procedure, especially if the patient requires a large amount of work to be done. This is why some patients are opting to travel abroad, to countries such as Turkey, to have the procedure done where it is considerably cheaper. However, what a lot of patients don’t realise is how invasive the procedure is and the risks involved.

The photo above shows an example of how invasive this procedure is, and how little natural tooth is left. Katie Price has had multiple procedures done in Turkey. Dentists warn patients against this as every time the treatment is done, more and more natural tooth tissue is removed.

In the UK, there are strict regulations in place relating to dental work, so anything carried out has to comply with the standards set by the General Dental Council. However, in other countries, these regulations don’t apply, contributing to the risk.

What Are The Dangers?

When veneers are fitted properly, they offer a low risk, long lasting solution to your smile insecurities. However, if carried out by someone inexperienced, they can result in serious damage leading to more treatment being needed to repair the tooth.

Immediately after treatment, patients tend to be very happy with the results achieved, often turning to social media to show off their new smile. But upon returning to the UK, they start to notice problems.

Common issues caused by Turkey teeth include:

• Intense pain.
• Sensitive teeth, making it difficult to eat or drink.
• Exposed nerves, leading to more treatment.
• Infected gums.
• Swelling.

Although it may be cheaper to travel to Turkey to improve your smile, there is a large cost associated with their repair when they inevitably start to cause you pain. This cost will not be covered by your dentist when you return home.

What Are My Options?

Instead of putting your health at risk by travelling abroad to receive cut-price treatment, consider the other options that are available to you. A less invasive treatment that is widely available is composite bonding. Here at Newby Dental Practice, our experienced dentists will be able to provide you with the smile you desire, whilst maintaining your natural teeth. Composite bonding involves the careful build up of dental composite. The procedure can even be completed in a single visit.

If you are interested in improving your smile, call us on 01723 670500 or use our patient portal to book a complementary appointment with our treatment coordinator who will explain the treatments available and what they think is best for you.