Dentist warns of rising “smile repair” cases as patients return from overseas cosmetic treatment

The Modern Dentist, a Shoreditch dental clinic is reporting a steady rise in patients seeking help after cosmetic treatment abroad, with many unaware that the procedure they paid for cannot be reversed.

A British Dental Association survey of 1,000 UK dentists found 94% had examined patients treated abroad, and 86% had treated complications afterwards. Crowns were named most likely to need follow-up work, by 87%. The Modern Dentist, on Leonard Street near Old Street station, sees the same pattern in its consultations. The most common complaints are sensitivity, gum inflammation, and teeth that look “too white and too uniform” to pass as natural.

The pattern, widely labelled ’Turkey teeth’ on social media, often involves crowns rather than veneers. Crowns require healthy enamel to be ground down to a small stump, permanently committing the patient to replacements every 10 to 15 years.

Dr Mark Flynn, founder of The Modern Dentist, said: “The word we hear most is ‘veneers’, but what many patients actually had was full crowns on healthy teeth. Once that enamel is gone, it’s gone. We’re not against anyone wanting a better smile. We’re against removing healthy teeth to get one when there are kinder options.”

Flynn points to composite bonding as an alternative for many patients. Tooth-coloured resin is added to the existing tooth to change its shape, length or colour, usually with little or no drilling.

“Bonding is additive. We build onto the tooth rather than cutting it away. It won’t suit everyone, but for chips, gaps and worn edges it often gives a natural result while keeping your options open for the future.”

Five questions to ask before any cosmetic dental treatment, at home or abroad

1. Is the treatment crowns, veneers, or bonding, and how much tooth will be removed?
2. Is the clinician registered with a regulator I can check, such as the General Dental Council?
3. What happens if something fails after I fly home, and who pays?
4. How long will this last, and what will replacements cost over my lifetime?
5. Can I see a digital preview of the result before anything irreversible happens?

The Modern Dentist offers free cosmetic consultations, including digital smile design, so patients can preview results before committing.