Turkey Teeth vs London Care: Why Fixing 'Cheap' Implants Costs More

Dental tourism has grown significantly in recent years, with many patients travelling abroad for dental treatment at a lower cost. The term "Turkey teeth" has become widely used in the media and on social platforms to describe cosmetic dental work carried out overseas — though it can refer to a range of treatments, not all of which involve implants.

It is important to acknowledge that many patients receive successful treatment abroad and are satisfied with their results. However, when problems do arise after overseas dental work, corrective treatment in the UK can sometimes involve additional complexity, clinical time, and cost. This guide provides a balanced overview of why that can happen and what patients should be aware of.

What Does "Turkey Teeth" Usually Refer To?

The phrase "Turkey teeth" is an informal term that has become associated with cosmetic dental work carried out abroad — most commonly in Turkey, though similar services are offered in other countries. The term can be misleading because it is often used broadly, without distinguishing between the different types of treatment involved.

In practice, "Turkey teeth" may refer to:

• Porcelain veneers — thin shells bonded to the front surface of existing teeth
• Full-coverage crowns — caps placed over natural teeth that have been prepared (reduced in size)
• Dental implants — titanium posts placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth, topped with crowns
• Implant-supported bridges — multiple replacement teeth supported by implants

Each of these treatments has different clinical requirements, risks, and long-term maintenance considerations. It is worth understanding which treatment you have received — or are considering — as this affects both the care needed and the options available if problems develop later.

Why Some Patients Choose Treatment Abroad

There are several reasons why patients consider dental treatment overseas, and cost is often the primary factor. Private dental care in the UK can represent a significant financial commitment, and the prospect of similar treatment at a substantially lower price is understandably appealing.

Other factors include:

• Shorter advertised treatment timelines, with some clinics offering complete treatment within a single visit
• Accessibility through social media marketing and online testimonials
• The ability to combine treatment with travel
• Perception of receiving the same standard of care at a reduced cost

These are legitimate considerations. However, patients should also be aware of potential differences in regulatory frameworks, follow-up arrangements, and the practical implications if treatment does not go as planned.

When Implant Problems Arise After Overseas Treatment

Not all overseas treatment results in problems — many patients have positive experiences and long-lasting results. However, when issues do occur, they can be varied in nature and complexity. Some of the more commonly reported concerns include:

• Bite or fit issues — restorations that do not align properly with the opposing teeth, leading to discomfort, uneven wear, or jaw strain
• Gum health concerns — inflammation, recession, or infection around implant sites, which may indicate peri-implantitis or inadequate soft tissue management
• Aesthetic dissatisfaction — restorations that appear bulky, uniform, or poorly matched to the patient's facial features
• Long-term stability concerns — implants that show signs of loosening, bone loss, or integration failure over time

These issues can arise with any dental treatment, regardless of where it was carried out. However, the practical challenges of addressing them can be greater when the original treatment was performed in another country.

Why Corrective Implant Treatment Can Be More Complex

When a patient presents with concerns about existing implant work, the assessing dentist must first understand what was done, what materials were used, and what the current clinical situation is. This process can be more involved when the original treatment was carried out elsewhere.

Limited Access to Original Records

In some cases, patients may not have detailed records of their original treatment, including implant specifications, placement angles, or the type of components used. Without this information, the assessing clinician must work from what can be observed and examined, which may require additional investigation and planning time.

Structural and Component Considerations

Different clinics around the world use different implant systems, and components are not always interchangeable. If an implant system used abroad is not commonly available in the UK, sourcing compatible parts — or replacing components entirely — can add to the complexity and cost of corrective work.

Addressing Underlying Issues

Corrective treatment is not always as straightforward as replacing a crown or tightening a component. In some cases, there may be underlying issues — such as bone loss around an implant, gum disease, or positioning problems — that need to be addressed before any restorative work can begin. This staged approach adds time and cost to the overall treatment.

Cost Considerations When Fixing Implant Problems

One of the most common concerns patients have when seeking corrective treatment is cost. It can be difficult to understand why fixing an existing problem may cost as much as — or more than — the original treatment. Several factors contribute to this:

• Additional clinical time — corrective cases often require more thorough assessment, planning, and chairside time than straightforward new placements
• Replacement components — if original parts are incompatible or unavailable, new components or even new implants may be required
• Preparatory procedures — bone grafting, gum treatment, or implant removal may be needed before corrective treatment can proceed
• Phased treatment planning — complex cases may require treatment to be carried out in stages over several months

For patients who would like to understand general implant pricing, our dental implants cost page provides an overview of what influences treatment fees in a private UK setting.

Continuity of Care and Long-Term Maintenance

One of the practical advantages of receiving dental treatment locally is the availability of ongoing care. Dental implants — whether newly placed or corrective — require regular review and professional maintenance to remain healthy over the long term.

Key aspects of long-term implant care include:

• Regular professional cleaning around implant sites
• Monitoring of gum health and bone levels over time
• Early identification and management of any developing concerns
• Adjustment or replacement of prosthetic components as needed

When treatment is carried out abroad, returning for follow-up appointments may not always be practical. This can mean that minor issues go undetected until they become more significant, potentially increasing the complexity and cost of any future corrective work.

Are All Overseas Treatments Problematic?

No. It would be inaccurate and unfair to suggest that all dental treatment carried out abroad is of poor quality. Many overseas clinics employ skilled clinicians, use reputable implant systems, and deliver excellent results. Patients should not feel judged for choosing treatment abroad, and clinicians assessing corrective cases should approach each situation objectively.

The key point is not where treatment was carried out, but whether the clinical outcome is satisfactory and sustainable. Individual results vary significantly depending on the specific clinician, the materials used, the complexity of the case, and the patient's own oral health and maintenance habits.

When problems do arise — whether from treatment in the UK or abroad — the focus should be on understanding the current situation and exploring the available options through a thorough clinical assessment.

When Is Professional Assessment Essential?

If you have concerns about existing dental implant work, a professional assessment is the most reliable way to understand your situation. Self-diagnosis — based on online research or comparison with other patients' experiences — can be misleading, as every case is clinically unique.

Signs that may warrant a professional review include:

• Persistent discomfort, pain, or sensitivity around implant sites
• Visible gum inflammation, swelling, or bleeding
• A feeling that an implant or restoration is loose or moving
• Difficulty chewing or an uneven bite
• Aesthetic concerns about the appearance of restorations

An assessment allows the clinician to evaluate the current condition of the implants, identify any issues, and discuss what options may be available. It does not commit you to any treatment — it simply provides the clinical information needed to make an informed decision.

Dental Implant Consultations in London

At our London clinic, we welcome patients who have concerns about existing implant work, regardless of where the original treatment was carried out. Our approach is patient-led, non-judgemental, and focused on understanding your individual situation.

During a consultation, we will assess the current condition of your implants and surrounding tissues, discuss any symptoms or concerns you may have, and explain the options available to you in clear, straightforward terms. We provide transparent information about what any corrective treatment would involve, including realistic timelines and costs.

There is no obligation to proceed with any treatment. Our aim is to ensure you have the clinical information you need to make a confident, informed choice about your dental health.

If you would like to discuss your situation, you can book a consultation or contact our team with any initial questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are "Turkey teeth"?

"Turkey teeth" is an informal term used to describe cosmetic dental work — including veneers, crowns, and sometimes implants — that has been carried out abroad, most commonly in Turkey. The term covers a wide range of treatments and does not indicate a specific procedure or outcome.

Can dental implants done abroad be fixed in the UK?

In many cases, yes. However, the complexity and cost of corrective work will depend on the specific issues present, the implant system used, and the current condition of the implants and surrounding tissues. A clinical assessment is needed to determine what options are available.

Why can fixing implants cost more than the original treatment?

Corrective treatment often involves additional steps that are not required in straightforward new placements — such as removing or replacing existing components, addressing bone or gum issues, and working with unfamiliar implant systems. These factors add clinical time and cost.

Are overseas dental implants always a problem?

No. Many patients receive successful implant treatment abroad with positive long-term outcomes. Problems can arise with any dental treatment, regardless of location. The important thing is to monitor implant health through regular reviews and seek professional advice if concerns develop.

What happens if an implant fails years later?

Implant failure can occur at any stage, though it is relatively uncommon with well-placed implants and good maintenance. If an implant fails, a clinical assessment will determine the cause and explore options, which may include implant removal, bone grafting, and replacement. The approach depends entirely on the individual case.

How do I know if my implants need review?

If you experience any pain, discomfort, swelling, bleeding, looseness, or aesthetic concerns around your implants, it is advisable to seek a professional review. Even without symptoms, regular check-ups are recommended to monitor the long-term health of implant-supported restorations.

Will a UK dentist treat implants placed abroad?

Many UK dentists are willing to assess and, where appropriate, treat implants placed abroad. However, the availability of compatible components and the complexity of the case may influence what can be done. A consultation will help clarify your specific options.

If you are unsure about previous implant treatment, a professional assessment can help clarify your options and next steps. Our team is here to provide honest, balanced clinical guidance in a supportive, no-pressure environment.