Istanbul rises as dental tourism hub amid UK's dental care crisis

Marion Parks, who traveled from a small village in England to Istanbul for dental implants, exemplifies a growing trend among Britons opting for essential dental care overseas, especially as access to basic treatment in the UK becomes increasingly difficult.

The UK is grappling with a significant shortage of dentists and issues in its National Health Service (NHS) dental funding. This situation has left millions unable to access affordable dental care, prompting them to look abroad. The crisis has been exacerbated by the closure of British clinics during COVID-19 lockdowns, creating a huge backlog. Now, the lack of accessibility is not just for cosmetic dental work but extends to general dentistry needs.

In contrast, Istanbul's dental clinics, like the Tower Dental Clinic visited by Parks, are witnessing a surge in patients from the UK. In 2023, more than 500 British patients were treated at Tower Dental Clinic, a significant increase from the 200 in 2022. The cost-effectiveness of treatment in Turkey, further amplified by a weaker Turkish lira, is a major draw. For instance, Parks was quoted £5,000 ($6,290) for two implants in the UK, while in Turkey, she paid only £923 ($1,160), including accommodation and extraction costs.

Parks' experience underscores the broader issues in the UK's dental system, where many citizens are unable to access basic dental care through the NHS. The situation has reached a point where some individuals resort to extreme measures like self-treatment due to lack of access. In light of these challenges, Istanbul's high-quality and affordable dental services present a compelling alternative for those seeking timely and cost-effective dental care.