A trend that’s nothing to smile about
We only have one set of teeth but worrying new research from Bupa has revealed that more than a quarter of UK adults would choose to travel overseas for cut-price dental treatment, possibly putting their health at risk.
The trend, dubbed Turkey Teeth because Turkey is a popular destination to have the treatment, has seen thousands of Brits jet off in search of a new set of pearly whites, ditching their natural teeth in favour of dental implants.
The process typically sees the healthy teeth shaved down, or removed completely and replaced with titanium screws placed into the jawbone. Crowns are then fitted. The procedure comes at a fraction of the price you’d expect to pay in the UK – around 70 per cent less than from £2,000 per tooth it would cost here.
But cutting costs when it comes to your teeth can mean paying a high price later. Indeed, reports of excruciating pain, destroyed teeth and infections as a result of dental tourism are at an all-time high.
“We are seeing an increase in the number of people who go to places like Turkey to have their teeth done,” says Dr Faizan Zaheer, dentist and head of clinical operations at Bupa Dental Care. “People can go abroad and have dental implants done at a fraction of the price and at the same time make a holiday out of it.”
Experts blame social media for glamorising dental tourism and creating unrealistic expectations when people share the results of their ‘smile makeover’ without revealing the full story.
“The reality of going abroad is rarely as simple as it appears on social media.
“We have to be careful because there is less regulatory protection, meaning that we have no assurances over how sterile the equipment is, what types of materials are used and so on,” says Dr Zaheer, who explains this can lead to botched treatments, broken teeth and dangerous infections.
“The quality of the treatment can be poor, and this means the patient then has to potentially pay thousands of pounds to have it corrected by a dentist in the UK.”
Our teeth are one of the most important parts of the body. They are needed to eat, speak and smile. So why risk it all for a bargain? Here, Dr Zaheer explains how to transform your teeth without having drastic dental surgery.
You want… A STRAIGHTER SMILE
“The main way to straighten your teeth is through orthodontic treatment, which means wearing braces. Over time, the braces move your teeth into an improved alignment,” says Dr Zaheer.
Options include clear aligners, metal fixed braces and hidden braces, which sit on the back of the teeth and are worn for up to two years.
Prices vary but typically range from £1,500 to £10,000.
“Another option is veneers, which is a layer of composite porcelain stuck to the front of the tooth. This doesn’t move your teeth but gives the illusion of an improved alignment,” says Dr Zaheer. “It can often be a cheaper ( from £650 per tooth) and quicker alternative to orthodontic treatment, but comes with its own
risks, including chipping and sensitivity.”
You want… WHITER TEETH
“Teeth often appear discoloured or dull because they pick up stains over time. A simple way to improve brightness is to see a hygienist who can provide polishing and other stain-removal treatments,” says Dr Zaheer.
“Tooth whitening – otherwise known as tooth bleaching – is another way to further enhance the shade of your teeth.
“This works by applying a chemical, hydrogen peroxide, to the teeth to remove staining.”
Again, prices vary, but a course of 12 days’ at-home whitening with custom-fitted trays costs around £450. Don’t be tempted by cheap deals found online and always speak to your dentist about whitening.