What are Turkey Teeth?

The term “Turkey Teeth” has gained popularity, particularly in the UK, to describe dental work conducted in Turkey, often associated with poorly executed procedures or cheap dental treatments. While it reflects some negative experiences, it unfairly generalizes the quality of care provided by reputable clinics. 

High-quality clinics in Turkey offer transformative dental procedures, including veneers, implants, and smile makeovers, often performed by experienced professionals using state-of-the-art technology​​. Could the real story behind “Turkey Teeth” be more about opportunity and expertise than the myths suggest?

Turkey Teeth with Statistics

Backed by reliable data from International Health Services Inc. (USHAŞ), Turkey’s healthcare tourism sector has shown remarkable growth in recent years. These statistics highlight the significant role Turkey plays as a global hub for high-quality and cost-effective dental treatments: 

  • 1,154,575 international patients sought healthcare services in Turkey during the third quarter of 2024.
  • This generated approximately $2.31 billion in revenue for the country’s health tourism sector.
  • The country’s dental clinics are renowned for their advanced technology and highly skilled dentists, contributing to its reputation as a hub for cosmetic dentistry.
Dental Clinic in Turkey

Why the Name “Turkey Teeth”?

The phrase “Turkey Teeth” gained traction on social media and in popular culture, reflecting both the trend and the mix of positive and negative experiences shared by patients. It often emphasizes dramatic dental transformations that have become synonymous with cosmetic tourism in Turkey.

By choosing reputable and accredited clinics, patients can achieve excellent results that go beyond the stereotype associated with the term. 

Turkey Teeth Gone Wrong – The Truth Behind the Stories

Sensational stories always grab the attention, botched procedures and dental disasters make for dramatic headlines. But what these tales often miss is the bigger picture: most patients who travel to Turkey for dental care are thrilled with their results. In fact, many clinics in Turkey meet international standards and deliver outcomes on par with, or even better than, those in the UK or US.

What About Success Stories?

For every “gone wrong” case, there are thousands of happy patients who leave Turkey with stunning smiles. These are the stories you don’t always hear:

  • Clinics with top-tier equipment and materials: Many clinics use the same advanced tools as those found in Western countries.
  • Highly skilled professionals: Dentists in reputable clinics undergo rigorous training and adhere to global standards like TEMOS and JCI.
  • Comprehensive aftercare: Trusted clinics ensure patients receive detailed post-treatment support to avoid complications and regularly follow patients to be sure everything is on track. 

Is the Problem the Country or the Choice?

Here’s something to think about: many of the problems labeled as “Turkey Teeth Gone Wrong” come from patients choosing unverified clinics or focusing solely on cost. 

The solution? Choose wisely. Look for clinics with accreditations, strong reviews, and transparent treatment plans.

MCAN Dental Accreditations

The term “Turkey Teeth” doesn’t have to mean risk. Instead, it can symbolize opportunity, the chance to get affordable, high-quality dental care from skilled professionals. For those who take the time to research and select the right clinic, a dream smile can become a reality.

How much are “Turkey Teeth”?

One of the most attractive aspects of getting dental treatments in Turkey is the significant cost savings and touristic attractions in Istanbul, Turkey. The affordability is not due to lower quality but rather the favorable exchange rates, lower operational costs, and government incentives promoting medical tourism

Below is a detailed comparison to highlight the value for money that patients receive:

TreatmentTurkey (Range)UK (Range)Savings
Veneers (per tooth)£100–£250£400–£1,000Up to 75%
Full Set of Veneers (16 teeth)£3,000–£5,000£10,000–£20,000Up to £15,000
Dental Implants (per tooth)£500–£1,200£2,000–£3,000Up to 60%
All-on-4 Implants (per arch)£5,000–£8,000£12,000–£18,000Up to £10,000

What Makes Dental Treatments in Turkey More Affordable?

Turkey’s dental tourism thrives on a unique balance of high-quality care and cost efficiency, making it an attractive choice for international patients seeking affordable yet reliable dental solutions:

  1. Lower Operational Costs: Clinics in Turkey benefit from lower costs for facilities, equipment, and labor without compromising quality.
  2. Favorable Exchange Rates: International patients, especially from the UK, benefit greatly from the Turkish lira’s value against stronger currencies.
  3. Government Incentives: Turkey actively supports medical tourism through tax benefits and subsidies, enabling clinics to offer competitive prices.

What Do These Costs Include?

Reputable clinics like MCAN Dental provide all-inclusive packages to make the experience seamless and stress-free:

All inclusive Turkey Teeth packages
  • Treatment: Comprehensive dental procedures performed by experienced specialists.
  • Accommodation: Stay in 4- or 5-star hotels for the duration of your treatment.
  • Transfers: Airport pickup, clinic visits, and hotel transportation.
  • Aftercare: Post-treatment checkups and 24/7 support during recovery.
  • Multilingual Assistance: Patient hosts fluent in English and other languages to ensure smooth communication.

A Real Cost-Saving Example

One of our patients from the UK needed a full set of veneers. Here’s what they experienced:

  • UK Estimated Cost: £14,000.
  • Turkey Actual Cost: £4,500 (including 5-star accommodation and transportation).
  • Savings: £9,500 — while enjoying a luxurious and comfortable stay in Istanbul.

What to Consider When Comparing Costs

While Turkey offers unmatched affordability, the focus should always be on quality and safety. Choosing an accredited clinic like MCAN Dental ensures you receive the best results without compromising your oral health. With transparent pricing and comprehensive care, you can have peace of mind knowing your smile makeover is in expert hands.

How to Choose the Right Dental Clinic in Turkey

Selecting the right dental clinic in Turkey is crucial for a safe and satisfying experience. Start by checking the clinic’s accreditations and certifications. Look for international standards like TEMOS or ISO, and verify their licensing with the Turkish Ministry of Health. A reputable clinic will also have dentists with specialized training and affiliations with organizations like the Turkish Dental Association or the European Society of Cosmetic Dentistry.

Patient reviews and testimonials are another valuable resource. Read feedback on platforms like Trustpilot to understand the clinic’s track record. Before-and-after photos of previous patients can also help you assess the quality and natural appearance of their work. Here is Tay’s amazing dental journey in Turkey with MCAN Dental.

Prioritize clinics that provide aftercare services, including follow-ups and 24/7 support. While affordability is a major draw for dental treatments in Turkey, remember that quality and expertise should always take precedence over price. By doing your research and focusing on these factors, you can achieve excellent results.

Checklist: How to Choose the Right Dental Clinic in Turkey

Choosing the right dental clinic in Turkey is essential for a safe and satisfying experience, and this checklist highlights the key factors to consider:

CriteriaWhat to Look ForWhy It Matters
Accreditations & CertificationsTEMOS, ISO, and Turkish Ministry of Health licensesClinics meet international healthcare standards.
Dentist QualificationsSpecialized training and memberships (e.g., Turkish Dental Association, European Society of Cosmetic Dentistry)Guarantees expertise and adherence to best practices.
Patient Reviews & TestimonialsFeedback on platforms like Trustpilot and patient storiesReflects real experiences and satisfaction levels.
Before-and-After PhotosClear examples of past dental workDemonstrates quality, precision, and natural results.
Aftercare ServicesFollow-ups, 24/7 support, and post-treatment careSupports smooth recovery and minimizes complications.
Transparent PricingClear cost breakdowns and no hidden feesPrevents unexpected financial surprises.
Clinic ReputationPositive online presence and strong recommendationsBuilds confidence in your choice.

Turkey Teeth Done Right with MCAN Dental

At MCAN Dental, we redefine the Turkey Teeth experience by combining world-class dental expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and patient-centric care

Our internationally accredited clinics prioritize safety, transparency, and outstanding results, ensuring each patient leaves with a confident, radiant smile. From personalized treatment plans to comprehensive aftercare and seamless travel arrangements, we are dedicated to delivering a stress-free and satisfying dental journey.