If you want a straighter, whiter, more perfect smile – you’re not alone! The latest statistics show that 43% of UK adults are interested in perfecting their smile with tooth whitening treatments, teeth straightening, veneers and composite bonding.
As the expectation that everyone needs a Hollywood-worthy smile increases, we’re seeing more DIY, at-home and online solutions promising quick and cheap results. It’s also becoming quite commonplace to hear of people traveling abroad for dental treatment.
In fact…
- In 2024, thousands admitted to using whitening treatments purchased from untrained providers operating outside of the law.
- 20 out of 36 teeth whitening kits sold online were found by Which? to contain illegal levels of bleach.
- 94% of UK dentists have examined patients who have sought dental treatment abroad.
- 86% of UK dentists have treated patients for issues caused by poor quality dental work received abroad.
So what are the risks of dental treatments that don’t come from a UK-based dental professional?
The risks of dental tourism
Despite dental holidays being marketed as cheap and hassle-free alternatives to receiving procedures like veneers in the UK – they come with a hidden expense of potentially tens of thousands of pounds, and your future health (in the mouth and beyond).
Procedures like veneers, crowns, bridges and dental implants are not cheap. This is due to the fact that they require a high level of expertise and quality materials. If you see these procedures available for a significantly lower cost abroad – you have to wonder if any corners are being cut to reach that price. These procedures also require multiple visits to the dental practice over several months – which is not always possible when your dentist is abroad.
Some other issues presented by dental tourism include:
- Communication – If you want to achieve your dream smile, you have to be able to communicate easily with your dentist! You want to feel safe in the knowledge that they understand what you are saying, and this can be more difficult if English is not your practitioner’s first or second language.
- Differing beauty standards – Different countries have different ideas of aesthetic beauty! This means that the results of your dental treatment might not end up meeting your personal expectations.
- Lower infection control standards – The UK has strict laws in place to protect patients from cross-infection. You can’t be sure that these same laws are in place abroad. The result can be painful and even life-threatening infections.
The weight of these risks really starts to add up, especially when you consider that it’s not uncommon for UK dentists to bill patients up to £10,000 to correct poor quality dental work carried out abroad.
The risks of DIY orthodontics
DIY orthodontics are teeth straightening solutions (such as clear aligners) that are available to buy online without the need to visit a dental practice. They are often marketed as fast, cheap and effective ways to achieve a straight smile. However, they also present a very real risk to your oral health.
Everyone’s mouth, jaw and teeth are different – which means that teeth straightening requires a highly personalised treatment process.
Dental examinations, x-rays, and check-ins throughout the process all ensure that your teeth are on track to forming a straight and healthy smile. Orthodontics can also trigger tooth sensitivity, gum inflammation and jaw ache, and regular check-ins with a dentist or orthodontist mean that these problems can be addressed.
The risks of unregulated tooth whitening
In a world full of toothpastes, strips and DIY trays promising whiter teeth, it’s important to remember that the only legal way to effectively whiten teeth is under the care of a qualified dental professional.
Pharmacy-bought products do not contain enough whitening agent to make much difference to teeth, while unregulated whitening kits available online have been found to contain dangerous levels of bleach for at-home use. These unregulated products can cause chemical burns, tooth sensitivity, and leave teeth vulnerable to cracks.
Safe Smiles – the charity campaign keeping smiles safe
As an increasing number of people are considering dental treatments, and more quick and cheap solutions fill the market, The Oral Health Foundation is demystifying dental advice and protecting the public against dangerous treatments.
They recommend that if you find any dental treatment available for an unbelievably low price, it is probably worth getting a second opinion and asking for advice from a trained dental professional.
Their new Safe Smiles charity campaign is a hub of information about safe dentistry and orthodontics. Head to their website for unbiased, trusted advice about dental treatments.
Ringley Park – the home of quality cosmetic dentistry in Reigate, Surrey
At Ringley Park in Reigate, Surrey, we pride ourselves on providing the very latest cosmetic dental treatments, performed by our highly-experienced, highly-skilled team. We are passionate about achieving our patients’ dream results safely and comfortably.
Book your consultation online or by speaking to our friendly reception team on 01737 240123.
