Nine out of 10 Dentists have been called upon to treat patients that have undergone dental treatments abroad, according to a recent survey.
The British Dental Association (BDA) has found that more than 90% of Dentists have examined patients who have travelled abroad for dental services, while an additional 86% have treated patients that have suffered problems following their overseas treatment.
A trend of Brits travelling to Turkey to seek dental treatment has been dubbed ‘Turkey Teeth’, with many TV personalities and TikTok stars undergoing the transformation in a bid to gain the ‘perfect’ smile.
However, findings from a BDA-led survey into dental tourism shows that many Dentists are concerned by the overseas treatment, with cases of ill-fitting crowns and loose implants being reported.
The findings outlined by the BDA include:
- Failing or failed treatment was the highest single risk factor at 86%, while pain was 76% and poorly executed treatment was 72%
- 87% of Dentists claimed that crowns required the most follow-up treatment, with implants second at 85%
- 51% of Dentists reported that it cost patients more than £1000 to repair the damage
Eddie Crouch, British Dental Associated Chair, claimed: “Patients need to provide informed consent for any treatment they have and be wary of a hard-sell, as the reality is rarely as simple as it appears on Instagram. Sadly, many UK Dentists are now picking up the pieces when things go wrong.”
He added: “We strongly advise people considering this to check a Dentist’s qualifications and experience and whether they are insured if things go wrong.”
UK Dental Professionals In Demand
While there may be a trend of people seeking dental treatment abroad, this latest research suggests that there is a high-risk factor in doing so. In the UK, dental professionals are very much needed to provide an expert level of care, ensuring that patients get the correct treatment.
Included in that effort are Dental Nurses, who play a crucial role in supporting Dentists and patients during treatments. You have an opportunity to break into this industry by training to become a Dental Nurse.
With learndirect, you can study the GDC approved City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing online with a named tutor while you train in a dental practice. To learn more about how you can achieve a dental career, speak to one of our Course Specialists on 01202 006 464 or contact us online.
