Turkey has become one of the top medical tourism destinations globally over recent years. The modern clinics, quality of service and affordable prices in comparison to a lot of other European countries has made it one of the most popular destinations available. While other cosmetic procedures have been growing in popularity, Dental Care has long been one of the most travelled for treatments. Dentists in Turkey are some of the best in the world. To become a dentist in Turkey, university students need to study for 5 years before being eligible to start working. As a result, dentists are highly skilled and competent all over the country. In this article, dental care in Turkey will be covered in detail. Keep reading below to find out more.
Table of Contents
Popular Dental Care Treatments
With highly skilled dentists and top of the range, modern clinics, all types of dental care procedures are available in Turkey. Some of the most popular for which medical tourists travel for include:
- Dental Implants
- A dental implant is a tooth root made of titanium which is implanted or screwed into the jaw bone. Once implanted, artificial teeth, also known as crowns, are attached to dental implants to replace missing teeth.
- Veneers
- Veneers are custom made shells which are placed on the front layer of your teeth. Mostly used to cover up chips and cracks in teeth, they are also a popular option to artificially create a perfect, bright smile.
- Root Canal
- A root canal is a treatment used on infected or damaged teeth. This is done by removing the tissue inside the tooth and then cleaning it to disinfect the damaged area before filling it with a special material.
- Dentures
- A denture is a removable appliance used to replace missing teeth. Depending on the number of teeth being replaced, dentures can be full or partial to create the look of having. a full set of teeth.
- Composite Bonding
- Composite bonding is the most commonly used solution for gaps or chipped/damaged teeth. A resin type material replicating the colour of the teeth will be applied, shaped and polished to fix any inconsistencies.
- Invisalign
- Invisalign is a type of braces which are transparent/see through. Worn over time, they align and straighten teeth. They are available to everyone and are generally easier and more comfortable than braces.
Why Travel to Turkey for Dental Care
Turkey has long been one of the most visited overseas destinations for dental care. There are many reasons for this, including:
- Reasonable costs
- Many dental treatments are significantly more affordable in Turkey than other countries. This means you are able to receive the same, high quality standard of treatment while only paying a lower price. Cheaper prices alone tend to be one of the biggest reasons why many patients decide to travel abroad for treatment.
- Modern clinics
- Turkey boasts some of the most modern clinics in the world with state of the art facilities. Medical care in Turkey is some of the best in the world therefore both public and private clinics are very modern with top of the range equipment.
- Highly skilled dentists
- Dentists in Turkey have to study for 5 years prior to becoming qualified, with 2 of those years involving work experience at a dentist’s practice. This means you do not need to worry about the standard of dentist or whether they will do a good job or not.
- Opportunity to combine treatment with a vacation
- One of the other most popular reasons many medical tourists choose to travel to Turkey for dental care is the opportunity to combine the treatment with a holiday. Since there are also significant cost savings which come from travelling to Turkey for dental care, it means a lot of tourists still have enough budget to stay a few extra days in a hotel and make the most of the great weather a lot of the country offers throughout many months of the year.
How Much Cheaper is Dental Care in Turkey
As Turkey uses the Turkish Lira, anyone travelling with Euro, Dollar, Pound or other strong currencies are getting more value for their money. This is one of the main reasons Turkey is such a popular destination for dental work. It is widely considered one of the best and most accessible locations due to the quality of treatment combined with lower prices.
How much cheaper dental care in Turkey is dependent on a number of factors:
- The dental treatment you are receiving
- The dentist and dental clinic you have chosen
- The city you travel to within Turkey
With these factors taken into consideration, your treatment can be anywhere from 2-4 times cheaper. This means on average, a $1,000 dollar dental treatment in Turkey would cost between $250-$500. We will be going into the average price per treatment in another article which will cover the details in much further depth. Seeing this cheaper price, it is easy to understand why Turkey is such a popular destination for dental treatment. Being able to combine your procedure with a beach holiday or city break also makes the offer even more enticing.
Is Turkey Safe for Dental Care
One of the main questions that is always asked when considering medical tourism in Turkey is if the country is safe. In 2023, Turkey welcomed 49.2 million global tourists with some of the top nationalities of visitors including Germany, UK & Bulgaria. Most of these visitors went to Istanbul and Antalya which also tend to be 2 of the most popular medical tourism & dental care destinations. As a result, Turkey is most definitely safe to travel to for dental care.
As with any destination, it is of course advised to exercise some caution as you are in a place you don’t know. An important thing to watch out for in Turkey is for the locals who are selling counterfeit goods and other souvenirs to not rip you off. Turkey is known for its bargaining culture so make sure to practice your bargaining while there.
Where in Turkey to get Dental Care
As mentioned in the previous section, the most popular destinations for dental care as well as medical tourism in general tend to be Istanbul, Antalya and Izmir. There are many places offering dental care in these regions and throughout Turkey. Choosing where to get your dental treatment done will depend on your preferences and schedule. If you prefer city breaks and would like to keep your trip short, Istanbul is a great choice as the city has no shortage of attractions and history for visitors. It is also well connected to the globe with Istanbul airport.
If you prefer a relaxing beach trip so you can relax by the sea or pool before and after your treatment, then Antalya is a great choice as the city offers beautiful beaches with scenic mountains nearby. Antalya airport is also well connected to a lot of European cities as it is a summer hotspot destination. Make sure to check out the different cities, the clinics within them and how you can travel to and from the location. Other cities such as Izmir, Ankara, Bodrum, Fethiye and Kusadasi also can be good options to consider.
Language, Travel and Other Considerations
Language
While the main language spoken in Turkey is Turkish, it is pretty easy to get by speaking English. All of the major cities and any well established clinics will all be able to speak English to help you during the preparation, booking and travelling of your trip. It is of course important to double check that you are booking with an English speaking clinic and clinician as it can complicate things should they not be able to communicate with you. Make sure you agree on the price of your treatment before you travel over so no surprises arise.
Travelling solo or not
When planning your trip, you may want to consider if you would like to travel alone or with somebody. Depending on the severity of the treatment you are going for, travelling with someone could be helpful. If you do not have anyone to travel with, don’t let this worry you too much either as the hospitality staff and people in the country in general are very kind and helpful. Lastly, consider how much time you would like to spend in the country. The procedure you opt for will determine the minimum amount of time you need to spend in the country however, it can also be nice to add a few days on either side of your treatment to relax and also enjoy the beauty of Turkey.
Clinic Research
Make sure to do your research well and consult with several dental clinics before making a decision. This will allow you to research the price of the treatment and what are the best options among different clinics. You also want to make sure you choose a well accredited and certified clinic so no unnecessary surprises arise. Also consult with your dentist whether you will be able to do other activities during your visit such as sightseeing or swimming depending on when you choose to go.
Visa
Depending on what country you’re travelling from, it is possible that you may need to apply for a visa. This is not the case for a lot of countries, including those in the EU and UK, as you will get a visa to stay in the country for up to 90 days upon arriving. It is worth checking your government website before you book anything because visa requirements can change. We will cover this in another article at a future date.
All inclusive or booking yourself
Finally, make sure you look at whether you are booking an all inclusive package or not. These packages offer various add ons for your trip such as transfers from the airport, transfers to the clinic and accommodation. If you are a person who prefers to have choice over these things however, it is definitely recommended you book yourself. Package bookings give you less control and at times can be less value for money so make sure to check out your options before making a decision.
FAQ's
- Why is dental care cheaper in Turkey?
- The cost of living and operating expenses in Turkey are lower than in many Western countries, leading to more affordable dental care. Additionally, the strong exchange rate of foreign currencies against the Turkish Lira makes treatments even more budget-friendly for international patients.
- Are Turkish dentists qualified and experienced
- Yes, Turkish dentists undergo rigorous training and education. They must complete a five-year university program and two years of work experience before practicing independently. Many dentists also pursue additional certifications and specialize in specific areas of dentistry.
- Is it safe to travel to Turkey for dental care?
- Turkey is a safe and welcoming country for tourists. Millions of visitors travel to Turkey each year for various purposes, including medical tourism. However, it’s always recommended to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, as you would in any foreign country.
- Which cities in Turkey are popular for dental tourism
- Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir are the most popular destinations for dental tourism in Turkey due to their well-established clinics, experienced dentists, and easy accessibility. However, other cities like Ankara, Bodrum, Fethiye, and Kusadasi also offer excellent dental care options.
- Is there a language barrier in Turkish dental clinics?
- Most clinics catering to international patients have English-speaking staff, including dentists and support personnel. It’s advisable to confirm this before booking your treatment.
- What should I consider when choosing a dental clinic in Turkey
- Research different clinics, compare prices and services, and check for certifications and accreditations. It’s also helpful to read online reviews and testimonials from previous patients.
- Should I book an all-inclusive package or arrange my trip independently?
- Both options have their advantages. All-inclusive packages offer convenience, including airport transfers, accommodation, and sometimes additional services like sightseeing tours. However, they might be less flexible and potentially more expensive than arranging everything yourself. Consider your preferences and budget before deciding.
- Do I need a visa to travel to Turkey for dental treatment
- Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality however in general, most countries can get a visa upon arrival. Check with the Turkish embassy or consulate in your country, or online for specific information.
- Can I combine my dental treatment with a vacation in Turkey?
- Absolutely! Many patients take advantage of the opportunity to explore Turkey’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty while undergoing dental treatment.
- What is the recovery time for dental procedures in Turkey?
- Recovery time varies depending on the specific procedure. Discuss this with your dentist during your consultation to plan your trip accordingly.
- How do I get started with planning my dental trip to Turkey?
- Research different clinics, contact them for consultations and quotes, and compare your options. Once you’ve chosen a clinic and treatment plan, book your flights and accommodation, and prepare for your journey! You can also contact us if you need any additional support.