‘Turkey Teeth’ Warning: UK Dentists Report Rising Complications From Cosmetic Dental Procedures Abroad

The Modern Dentist, a dental clinic based in Shoreditch, London, says it is seeing a steady increase in patients seeking treatment for problems following cosmetic dental procedures carried out abroad.

According to the clinic, some patients arrive with complications or concerns about results they did not realise could involve permanent changes to their natural teeth.

A survey conducted by the British Dental Association among 1,000 UK dentists found that 94% had examined patients who received dental treatment overseas, while 86% had subsequently treated complications. Crowns were identified as the procedure most likely to require follow-up treatment, with 87% of dentists highlighting them.

The Modern Dentist, located on Leonard Street near Old Street station, reports that common complaints include tooth sensitivity, inflamed gums and results in which teeth appear excessively white and uniform.

‘Turkey Teeth’ Procedures Can Involve Permanent Tooth Reduction

The treatments frequently described on social media as ‘Turkey teeth’ often involve dental crowns rather than veneers.

Preparing a tooth for a crown can require healthy enamel to be removed until the remaining structure resembles a small stump. Once this has been done, the procedure cannot be reversed, leaving patients needing replacement crowns, typically every 10 to 15 years.

Dr Mark Flynn, founder of The Modern Dentist, said some patients use the term veneers to describe treatment they received, although they had actually undergone full crown procedures on otherwise healthy teeth.

He said the clinic does not oppose cosmetic dental treatment but is concerned about healthy tooth structure being removed when less invasive alternatives may be available.

Composite Bonding Offered as an Alternative

Flynn identified composite bonding as an option for some patients seeking to improve the appearance of their teeth.

The procedure involves applying tooth-coloured resin to existing teeth to alter their shape, length or colour. It can usually be carried out with little or no drilling.

Unlike crowns, which involve removing tooth structure, composite bonding adds material to the natural tooth. Flynn said the treatment may be suitable for addressing chips, gaps and worn edges, although it is not appropriate for every patient.

He added that bonding can produce natural-looking results while preserving more of the original tooth.

Five Questions Patients Should Ask Before Cosmetic Dental Work

The clinic has highlighted five questions patients should consider before undergoing cosmetic dental treatment, whether in the UK or overseas:

1. Is the proposed procedure a crown, veneer or composite bonding, and how much natural tooth structure will be removed?
2. Is the dental professional registered with a regulator that can be independently checked, such as the General Dental Council?
3. What arrangements are available if complications develop after returning home, and who will cover the costs?
4. How long is the treatment expected to last, and how much will future replacements cost over a patient’s lifetime?
5. Can the patient see a digital preview of the proposed results before agreeing to an irreversible procedure?

Free Consultations Include Digital Smile Design

The Modern Dentist offers free cosmetic consultations for people considering dental treatment.

The consultations include digital smile design, allowing patients to preview the proposed appearance of their teeth before deciding whether to proceed with treatment.