With thousands of UK residents heading to Turkey each year for affordable cosmetic dental work, it’s no surprise the country has become a hotspot for smile makeovers. From full sets of veneers to implants and crowns, clinics across Istanbul, Antalya, and beyond offer world-class results for a fraction of UK prices.
Turkey is packed with excellent clinics with modern equipment and skilled dentists. But there is the odd horror story. So how do you separate the trusted professionals from the TikTok-famous tourist traps? If you’re considering dental treatment abroad, this checklist will help you choose the right clinic — safely, confidently, and without second-guessing your smile.
Do your research early
Don’t wait until you’ve booked your flight to pick a clinic. Start by:
- Searching Google for verified reviews
- Trustpilot reviews are a must – look for clinics that have an “Excellent” rating with many reviews to back this up. These should run into the hundreds to give you a real flavour of their skills, their service and of course, their results!
- Checking independent forums, Facebook groups, and Reddit threads for real patient experiences
- YouTube is a fantastic place to find video testimonials from clients. It’s a major plus if the clinic has these!
A good clinic will have consistent, verifiable feedback across multiple platforms — not just their own website.
Check qualifications and accreditations
Dentists in Turkey undergo extensive training, but not all specialise in cosmetic procedures. Look for clinics where:
- Dentists are clearly named and have a full bio on the website
- They have cosmetic dentistry qualifications or postgraduate training
- They’re registered with a national body, such as the Turkish Dental Association (TDB)
Some clinics — including Smile Dental Turkey — go further, providing multilingual staff, internationally accredited dentists, and training that aligns with EU standards.
Ask about materials and technology
Cheap prices sometimes mean cheap materials. You want:
- High-quality veneers and crowns made in professional dental labs (not chairside in one visit)
- Use of digital scanning and smile design
- Access to 3D imaging and modern equipment
A good clinic will be proud to explain the materials and technology they use. If they dodge the question or offer vague answers — move on.
Don’t skip the consultation
Whether online or in-person, a proper consultation should:
- Assess your oral health
- Review X-rays or scans – look for clinics that offer to refund the cost of x-rays taken in the UK when treatment is booked
- Discuss treatment options in detail
- Give a personalised plan and quote
If they go straight from a few photos to “we’ll do 20 crowns,” that’s a red flag. Your treatment should be bespoke, not off-the-shelf.
The best clinics offer virtual assessments via WhatsApp or video call before you even step on a plane — so you know exactly what to expect.
Review the clinic’s portfolio
Instagram is full of perfect smiles — but is it real?
Look for:
- Unedited before-and-after photos
- A range of different cases (not just one face type)
- Case studies or testimonials that detail the full process
- Smiles that look natural — not glow-in-the-dark
If every smile is exactly the same size, shape and whiteness, be cautious. You want a clinic that values design and individualisation, not mass production.
Check the clinic’s location and facilities
It sounds obvious, but where exactly is the clinic?
Some lower-end providers work out of small premises, multi-use buildings, or even hotel rooms — which may not meet professional healthcare standards.
Instead, look for:
- A dedicated clinic with proper dental suites
- Clean, clinical environments (not beauty salon crossovers)
- Photos and videos of the facility online
- Easy access to your hotel or airport
It goes without saying that your chosen clinic should operate from modern, purpose-built facilities in central Antalya with its own in-house lab and imaging equipment.
Understand the cost breakdown
You’ll often see eye-catching prices like “Hollywood smile makeover for £2,500” — but what’s actually included?
Ask for a detailed breakdown:
- Number of teeth included
- Type of veneers/crowns (zirconia, E-max, porcelain, etc.)
- Any prep work (root canals, extractions)
- Flights and hotel (if included)
- Retainers, whitening, aftercare, etc.
Good clinics are upfront and transparent, with all costs clearly laid out. If they’re evasive or change pricing mid-conversation, walk away.
Ask about guarantees and aftercare
What happens if something goes wrong — a veneer chips, or a crown feels off?
Reputable clinics will offer:
- Written guarantees for a period of time (1–5 years)
- Free adjustments or replacements within that window
- Remote support if you need help after returning to the UK
Your chosen clinic should offer post-treatment check-ups and multilingual patient support, with clearly defined warranties on their work.
Look for communication and professionalism
How a clinic communicates with you in the early stages says a lot. Are they:
- Quick to respond?
- Willing to answer your questions fully?
- Transparent about the process?
You should feel respected, not rushed. A good clinic builds trust before you arrive — not just once you’re in the chair.
Trust your gut
Finally, listen to your instincts. If something feels too good to be true, it might well be. And if a clinic ticks every box but still doesn’t sit right with you — it’s okay to keep looking.
Your smile is a long-term investment. It’s worth taking the time to get it right.
Final thoughts
Turkey has become a world leader in affordable, high-quality cosmetic dentistry — and with the right clinic, you can get excellent results in a safe, professional environment.
But not all clinics are equal. This checklist will help you cut through the noise, avoid the red flags, and choose a dental partner that puts your health, comfort, and confidence first.
Do your homework, ask the right questions — and your new smile could be just one flight away.
