Traveling To Turkey For Dental Work Amidst Coronavirus

Turkey is a popular destination for dental tourism due to its affordable prices. However, there are several risks associated with travelling abroad for dental procedures. The language barrier, lax dental regulations, unexpected costs due to complications, and low-quality dental work are some of the concerns. On the other hand, Turkey has advanced medical technology, highly experienced medical professionals, and strict standards for healthcare facilities overseen by the country's Ministry of Health. The country also has a strong tradition of hospitality and a robust Tourist Police department. As of December 7, 2022, the CDC requires proof of vaccination for non-U.S. citizen nonimmigrants travelling to the United States. The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to within 10km of the border with Syria and all but essential travel to Sirnak city and Hakkari Province.

Language barriers

Turkey is a popular destination for dental tourism, with people travelling there for quality dental care at affordable prices. However, language barriers can be a concern for those considering dental treatment in Turkey. Here are some important points to consider regarding language barriers when seeking dental work in Turkey:

• English-speaking Dentists: Many dental clinics in Turkey cater specifically to international patients and have multilingual staff, including English-speaking dentists. This ensures effective communication and understanding of dental procedures, reducing the risk of miscommunication.
• Translation Services: Some clinics offer translation services to assist patients who do not speak Turkish or English. This can be helpful for explaining procedures, providing post-operative care instructions, and addressing any concerns or questions.
• Communication Tools: With the advancement of technology, various communication tools are available to bridge language barriers. These may include translation apps, online interpreters, or language-specific brochures and materials provided by the clinic.
• Online Consultations: Before travelling to Turkey, patients can opt for online consultations with dentists. This allows for a preliminary discussion about the desired dental work and can help set expectations regarding the treatment plan and potential language barriers.
• Dental Tourism Agencies: Agencies that specialise in dental tourism, such as Clinic International, can assist with travel arrangements and act as a language intermediary. They often have staff fluent in both English and Turkish, facilitating communication between patients and healthcare providers, ensuring a smooth dental tourism experience.
• Basic Turkish Phrases: Learning a few basic Turkish phrases related to dental care or emergencies can be helpful. Carrying a translation book or using translation apps can also aid communication during your trip.
• Choosing a Clinic: When selecting a dental clinic in Turkey, it is essential to consider the language skills of the staff. Opt for clinics that have experience treating international patients and can provide services in your language.

While language barriers can be a concern when travelling to Turkey for dental work, many resources and options are available to mitigate these challenges. It is beneficial to research clinics thoroughly, utilise translation tools, and consider seeking assistance from dental tourism agencies to ensure a smooth and worry-free experience.

Lax dental regulations

While Turkey is a popular destination for dental tourism, it's important to be aware of the risks associated with getting dental work done in the country. One of the main risks is the lack of strict dental regulations in Turkey. In the UK, for example, the General Dental Council sets standards and regulations to safeguard patients and ensure that dental practices are up to scratch. However, in Turkey, these regulations do not apply, and the rules are more relaxed.

This lack of regulation has resulted in several issues and complications for dental tourists. Since 2019, 22 British people have reportedly died during their trips to Turkey for dental procedures, and many others have fallen severely ill. There have also been cases of infections, ill-fitting crowns, and implants that have fallen out.

The use of machines instead of trained lab technicians to craft veneers and other dental restorations is another notable issue. This often results in teeth that lack the detail and customisation needed to resemble the patient's natural teeth. In contrast, countries with stricter regulations, such as the UK, take several weeks to ensure quality and customisation.

The lack of adequate dentistry regulations in Turkey can also lead to unnecessary tooth loss and severe dental and jaw pain due to incorrect procedures and the use of improper materials.

While there are likely many respectable dentists in Turkey who provide safe treatments, it's crucial to be aware of these risks and weigh them carefully before making a decision. The regulations in countries like the UK ensure trusted dentistry, even if the procedures are more expensive.

Additional costs due to complications

While the initial cost of getting your teeth done in Turkey is significantly lower than in the UK, complications can arise that cause costs to add up. Here are some potential complications that could increase the cost of your dental work:

• Infection: If you develop an infection after your dental procedure, you may need to seek medical attention and take antibiotics. This can increase your costs, especially if you don't have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
• Dry socket: This complication can occur after a tooth extraction, causing delayed healing. Treatment for dry socket may include special dressings soaked with anesthetic and antimicrobial agents, increasing your costs.
• Osteomyelitis: This is an infection of the bone, usually caused by bacteria. Treatment for osteomyelitis typically involves antibiotics and can be costly.
• Bleeding: If you experience excessive bleeding after a tooth extraction, you may need to see a dentist to clean out the bleeding area and close it with stitches. This will incur additional costs.
• Jaw pain and changed bite: Cheap dental work or incorrect procedures can result in jaw pain and a changed bite, requiring additional treatment to correct.
• Severe sensitivity: Over-preparation of the teeth or use of incorrect materials can lead to severe tooth sensitivity, requiring further treatment.

To avoid unexpected costs due to complications, it is essential to choose a reputable dentist in Turkey who follows international dental standards and uses high-quality materials. Make sure to do your research, read reviews, and verify the qualifications of the dentist you select. Additionally, consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical expenses to help mitigate the financial impact of any complications.

Poor-quality dental work causing more damage

While it can be tempting to travel to Turkey for dental work, it's important to be aware of the risks involved, especially when it comes to poor-quality dental work that can cause more damage to your teeth and overall health. Here are some reasons why poor-quality dental work should be avoided:

Language Barrier

The language barrier in Turkey can pose a significant challenge for dental tourists. While there may be English-speaking dentists in tourist areas, venturing outside these areas may result in communication difficulties. Medical conversations are intricate and require a clear understanding to ensure your needs and concerns are addressed properly.

Lax Dental Regulations

Turkey has less stringent dental regulations compared to countries like the UK. This lack of strict regulations has been associated with medical issues, including the deaths of British citizens who travelled to Turkey for dental procedures since 2019. The biological risks associated with "Turkey teeth" highlight the importance of prioritizing your health and safety over cost savings.

Lack of Detail in Dental Work

In Turkey, machine-made teeth are commonly used instead of handcrafted teeth by trained lab technicians. This results in teeth that may not resemble your natural teeth as closely as you would like. The process of crafting custom-made teeth takes time but ensures a higher quality and more natural-looking result.

Additional Costs Due to Complications

While the initial cost of dental work in Turkey may seem attractive, it's important to consider potential complications that can arise. These complications can result in additional monetary costs, as well as a negative impact on your health and well-being. It's crucial to prioritize your health and choose dental procedures that adhere to international standards and regulations.

Cheap Dental Work Can Result in More Damage

Opting for cheap dental work can sometimes lead to unintended consequences. Untrained professionals, inadequate regulations, or the use of incorrect materials can result in a range of issues, including a changed bite, severe tooth sensitivity, and dental and jaw pain. It's important to prioritize your oral health and choose dental providers who adhere to international standards and utilize appropriate materials and techniques.

Travel advisories and safety

Turkey is a popular destination for dental tourism, with people travelling there to take advantage of the low costs of dental work. However, there are several safety considerations to take into account before planning a trip for dental work in Turkey.

The US Department of State has issued a Level 2 advisory for Turkey, urging travellers to exercise increased caution due to terrorism and arbitrary detentions. Certain areas, such as the Sirnak and Hakkari provinces and areas within six miles of the Syrian border, are marked as Level 4, which means they should not be travelled to due to the threat of attacks by terrorist groups, armed conflict, and civil unrest.

Terrorist groups continue to plot attacks in Turkey, and these may target tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, hotels, clubs, restaurants, and other public areas. Security forces have also detained tens of thousands of individuals, including US citizens, on politically-motivated grounds. Participation in demonstrations and criticism of the government can result in arrest. Therefore, it is important to stay alert in locations frequented by tourists, avoid demonstrations and crowds, and enrol in the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program to stay informed about travel alerts.

In addition to the security concerns, there are also specific risks associated with dental work in Turkey. It is important to select a reputable clinic with qualified dentists and good safety protocols. The language barrier can be a significant issue, as English speakers may encounter difficulties in communication with dental staff outside tourist areas. Dentistry regulations in Turkey are also less stringent than in countries like the UK, which can result in substandard work and health complications.

When planning a trip for dental work in Turkey, it is essential to research the clinic and the dentists' qualifications, check patient testimonials, and be aware of the potential risks and complications.

Frequently asked questions