Dental implants in Turkey are one of the most popular procedures sought by UK patients who travel to Turkey for treatment. The treatment provides a long-term, natural-looking solution to tooth loss and, when undertaken in a competent facility, yields excellent results.
Knowing what to expect at each step along the way allows you to make an informed choice.
What Are Dental Implants and How Do They Work?
A dental implant is a titanium post embedded into the jaw, which acts as the tooth root. After the implant has bonded with the jawbone, a crown is placed on the implant to create a restoration that resembles a natural tooth.
The treatment has two stages. The surgical stage involves implant placement. The restorative phase, which takes place after the site has healed, places the crown. The two-stage process is standard practice and is the same whether the work is carried out in the UK or overseas.
Phase One: Assessment and Preparation
Preceding surgical procedures, a comprehensive evaluation is crucial. When it comes to dental implants, Turkish clinics have state-of-the-art 3D imaging equipment, scanning the jawbone, nearby teeth, and structures. This imaging informs the precise placement plan for each implant.
The evaluation also includes the density and volume of the bone. If the patient has been missing a tooth for some time, there may be a loss of bone in the area. In this case, a bone graft may be needed to build the base for the implant.
Phase Two: Implant Placement Surgery
The surgical procedure takes place under local anaesthesia. Most patients report that the experience is more comfortable than they anticipated. The steps involved include:
• Administration of local anaesthetic to ensure complete comfort
• Precise incision in the gum to access the underlying bone
• Careful drilling of a channel in the jawbone to the required dimensions
• Placement of the titanium implant fixture
• Suturing of the gum tissue
The procedure takes one to one-and-a-half hours per implant. During the healing process, a temporary crown or cap can be fitted over the implant site.
The Osseointegration Period
Once an implant is in place, it goes through osseointegration, the body's natural process of integrating the titanium implant with the jawbone. This process takes around three to six months and results in the implant becoming a permanent fixture in your jawbone.
For the majority of patients, this period passes without any notable discomfort. Good oral health practices, along with the special care instructions your dentist gives you, ensure proper healing during this period.
Phase Three: Abutment Placement and Final Crown
Once osseointegration has occurred - usually after a period of 3 to 6 months - the second visit to Turkey occurs. The dentist attaches a small piece (abutment) to the implant. Impressions or digital scans of the area are made, and a crown is designed to suit the colour, shape and size of your natural teeth.
The final crown is fitted and adjusted during this visit. Most crowns are delivered on the same day of treatment. The outcome is a permanent tooth replacement which feels like the real thing.
Recovery Timeline After Implant Surgery
Recovery progresses in predictable stages:
• Days one to three: Mild swelling and tenderness are expected and manageable with prescribed medication
• Days four to seven: Swelling reduces, and comfort levels improve significantly
• Week two: Most patients resume normal eating patterns with care
• Weeks three to twelve: Continued healing and osseointegration
• Three to six months: Return visit for final restoration
You'll receive written advice for every step of the process, including aftercare diet and oral hygiene tips specific to your treatment.
Dental Implants Turkey Cost: What to Expect
One of the main motivations for travelling to Turkey is the dental implants in Turkey. The cost of a single implant in the UK can be much higher than in Turkey, even considering travel and accommodation costs. The cost savings are even greater for a full mouth or multiple implants.
The price will differ according to the number of implants, choice of implant system and whether bone grafting is needed. A written estimate of the costs involved, which itemises each stage of the treatment, should be obtained to aid comparison and planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many trips to Turkey are required for dental implants?
The standard is two trips. One is for the surgical placement and the other, after three to six months, is for the crown insertion. On occasion, immediate loading cases will only require a single trip, but this is case-dependent.
Are dental implants in Turkey made from the same materials as those used in the UK?
Yes. Established clinics use implant systems from internationally recognised manufacturers. Consulting patients are advised to request information about the brand of implant and evidence of the origin of materials.
What is the success rate for dental implants?
Success rates for dental implants are documented in worldwide studies. Success rates are heavily dependent on bone quality, accuracy of placement and quality of follow-up care. Pre-treatment consultation will reveal any characteristics that might impact your success.
Can I fly home shortly after implant surgery?
The majority of patients leave the country within two to three days of surgery. Your dental treatment team will confirm the timeframe based on your treatment and recovery.