A dentist has raised alarms about an increase in patients needing treatment for painful and damaged “Turkey teeth” over the past year.
Dr. Kath Stahl, who practices in East Yorkshire, stated that many individuals pursuing the “Hollywood smile” are being misled by flashy social media marketing and the lower costs of procedures abroad.
Dr. Stahl expressed concern that young people with healthy teeth are opting for “inappropriate” treatments overseas, such as dental crowns, simply to achieve a specific look. This trend continues despite warnings from the NHS and dental organizations about the risks associated with cheap overseas treatments.
Her concerns echo those of plastic surgeon Matt Smith, who noted a rise in “cosmetic tourists” seeking emergency care on the NHS due to failed procedures abroad. Smith reported treating one or two patients each month with complications like infections and sepsis from botched surgeries.
At her practice, Dr. Stahl encountered patients unaware that their dental issues stemmed from overseas procedures. One woman, who had multiple crowns and bridges fitted in Turkey, came in complaining of blood clots in her mouth. She was shocked to learn that her dental work was of such poor quality that it was injuring her gums.
Dr. Stahl highlighted the influence of social media and reality TV on young people’s decisions regarding dental treatments. She explained that many young adults travel abroad for treatments they do not need, often opting for full-mouth crowns despite having perfectly healthy teeth. The process of fitting crowns involves removing 60-70% of the natural tooth structure.
She emphasized that no dental treatment is without risk. While some procedures may succeed and look appealing, others can lead to broken teeth, sore gums, and infections. Patients who save just enough for overseas treatment may find themselves unable to afford necessary follow-up care in the UK.
Correcting poorly done work from overseas can be challenging, Dr. Stahl noted. Dentists may not know what materials were used or how the initial procedure was performed. Additionally, some dentists worry about legal liability if they attempt to fix these issues.
The NHS has cautioned those considering overseas dental work about aggressive sales tactics and the pressure to make quick decisions.
They recommend consulting a UK dentist before traveling abroad for cosmetic procedures.
Dr. Stahl advised anyone thinking about cosmetic work to first consult a UK dentist. If they choose to go abroad, thorough research is essential. Patients should select a clinician who prioritizes their overall health and consider what aftercare will be necessary.
“If it seems too good to be true, it probably is,” she cautioned.
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