UK patients are increasingly looking abroad for affordable, high-quality dental care. Turkey and Hungary have emerged as top destinations, offering modern clinics and experienced dentists at a fraction of UK prices.
From full-mouth implant restorations (like All-on-4 or All-on-6) to cosmetic smile makeovers (veneers, crowns, bonding), this guide explains why so many Brits travel to Istanbul, Antalya or Budapest for treatment. We’ll compare Turkey vs Hungary, break down treatment timelines and prices, highlight top clinics, and cover travel tips and aftercare. If you’re considering a more natural and biocompatible solution, learn about the benefits of metal-free zirconia implants in Hungary.
Before flying home after surgery, make sure you know everything about traveling with dental implants, airport security, and insurance tips.
(Information is for education only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. All procedures carry risks – consult your dentist and do thorough research.)
Why UK Patients Choose Dental Treatment Abroad
Many UK patients consider dental tourism due to a combination of cost savings, faster access, and quality care. Major dental work – implants, bridges, extensive crown/veneer work – can be 50-70% cheaper abroad.
Shorter waiting times and the appeal of combining treatment with a holiday are also common reasons. British dentistry’s challenges (NHS shortages and expensive private fees) have led to a boom in patients flying out for care[1][2]. Turkey and Hungary are noted as key destinations for UK dental tourists, thanks to well-established clinics catering to foreigners.
- Savings vs UK prices – the cost difference is striking for big-ticket treatments:
Treatment | UK (private) | Turkey | Hungary |
---|---|---|---|
Single dental implant (with crown) | ~£2,500 | ~£600 – £800 | ~£900 – £1,100 |
All-on-4 full-arch implants (per arch) | ~£12,000 – £15,000 | ~£2,500 – £4,000 | ~£3,000 – £5,000 |
Approximate private dental costs in UK vs treatment abroad. Price bands are indicative – actual quotes depend on individual cases, implant brands and clinic packages.
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2. Beyond cost, quality and safety are key considerations. Many clinics in Turkey and Hungary boast state-of-the-art facilities, English-speaking staff, and internationally trained dentists. Hungary in particular has a long tradition of dental excellence – it’s often called the “world capital of dentistry”, with highly ranked dental schools (Semmelweis University) and stringent training standards for specialists.
Turkish clinics, especially in Istanbul and Antalya, likewise attract experienced dentists and use modern technology – often with CE-certified implants (e.g. Straumann, Nobel Biocare) at much lower cost.
3. Safety, accreditation and warranties: Going abroad for treatment does come with risks, so UK patients should do their homework. Check if the destination country has a dental regulator or mandatory registration – for example, dentists in Hungary can be members of the Hungarian Medical Chamber (MOK), and many top clinics have international accreditations like TEMOS or ISO 9001.
In Turkey, clinics catering to foreigners often adhere to international standards and some are even JCI-accredited (Joint Commission International) as part of larger hospital groups. Always verify the dentist’s qualifications and ask about their experience with your procedure.
Encouragingly, many overseas clinics offer robust warranties on their work – something not commonly available with private UK dentistry. It’s common to see 5-year guarantees on crowns/veneers and 10+ years or lifetime on implant fixtures, provided you maintain check-ups. Such warranties reflect confidence in their materials and lab work.
Booking Dentist serves as your safety guarantee – we advise you to be wary of hard-sell marketing, ensure you get a full treatment plan, and understand what happens if complications arise. With Booking Dentist you are never rushed into a decision.
In short: patients can find high-quality care abroad, but it requires careful selection (more on choosing a clinic later).
Turkey vs Hungary for Dental Treatments
Both Turkey and Hungary are leading destinations for dental tourism, but they offer slightly different experiences. Here’s a side-by-side look at key factors for UK patients:
Factor | Turkey (Istanbul & Antalya) | Hungary (Budapest) |
---|---|---|
✈️ Travel time from UK | ~4 hours flight (London to Istanbul/Antalya) | ~2.5 hours flight (London to Budapest) |
💷 Flight & hotel costs | Budget flights ~£100-£300 return. If accomodation is not included in treatment – hotels are affordable (4★ hotels ~£50-£80/night). | Flights (~£50–£150 return with low-cost airlines). If accomodation is not included in treatment – hotels ~£60-£100/night in Budapest. |
🏥 Number of clinics for tourists | Extensive choice – hundreds of clinics. | High-quality but fewer clinics. |
🌐 Language | Clinics in tourist hubs have English-speaking dentists and staff; many also provide translators for other languages. | Clinics in tourist hubs have English-speaking dentists and staff; many also provide translators for other languages. |
🏖️ Holiday options | Combine treatment with a sunny holiday. Istanbul offers rich history and shopping; Antalya offers beaches and resorts – some clinics include resort stay in packages. | Combine treatment with European city charm. Budapest offers thermal baths, historic architecture and culture. Easy day trips to Vienna/Prague are possible too. |
💰 Typical price level | Generally lower costs than Hungary for similar work (due to currency and competition). e.g. crowns from ~£100, implants from ~£500. | Still much cheaper than UK, but slightly higher than Turkey. Crowns ~£180+, implants ~£750+. Quality materials (German/Swiss implants) common. |
🔍 Notable for | “Turkey teeth” trend (celebrity-style veneer/crown smile makeovers), All-on-4 immediate implant bridges, full-service packages including tourism. | Dental implants and oral surgery expertise (Budapest is a long-standing hub for implants since the 1990s), high success rates and precision dentistry. |
In summary: Both countries have world-class clinics, so the choice often comes down to personal preference: do you fancy a Central European city break, or a Mediterranean getaway? Start organizing your treatment abroad with our guide on planning a dental trip to Budapest.
Typical Treatment Timeline: What to Expect
One common concern is “How long will I need to stay?” Fortunately, both Turkey and Hungary have streamlined processes for international patients, minimizing time on the ground. Many treatments are completed in about 5-7 days per trip, and complex procedures can be split into two visits a few months apart. Below is an overview of typical timelines:
Treatment | Trip 1 – Initial Visit | Healing Interval | Trip 2 – Follow-up Visit |
---|---|---|---|
Single dental implant (two-stage) | 3-5 days – consultation, scans, implant placement surgery. Temporary denture or crown provided. | 3-6 months for osseointegration (implant to fuse with bone) | 5-7 days – uncover implant and attach permanent crown. |
All-on-4 or All-on-6 full-arch implants | 5-7 days – initial consultation, any extractions, place 4-6 implants per arch. Immediate temporary bridge fixed the next day (often). | 4-6+ months healing. Patient wears the fixed acrylic provisional teeth during this period. | 5-7 days – return for final permanent bridge (usually zirconia or porcelain) fitting after healing, or optional if happy with initial set. |
Porcelain veneers or crowns (smile makeover) | 5-7 days – Day 1 consult & prep teeth, days 2-5 lab crafts veneers/crowns, with a try-in for fit/colour, day 5-7 final cementation. | n/a (done in a single trip) | n/a (one trip sufficient for 10-20 teeth). Possible second visit only if extensive revisions are needed (rare). |
Composite bonding (minor cosmetic fixes) | 1-2 days – can often be done in one extended session (direct resin bonding on teeth). | n/a | n/a (single visit). |
Keep in mind these timelines can vary based on individual cases. More complex cases (needing bone grafts, extra healing time, or more adjustments) could require longer stays or an extra trip. Always discuss the treatment plan with your dentist beforehand – they should outline how many visits are needed and how long each stage will take.
For full-arch restorations, see which is right for you: All-on-4 vs. All-on-6 dental implants.
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Treatments & Prices Abroad: What to Expect
Now let’s dive into specific treatments popular with UK dental tourists, and compare options in Turkey vs Hungary. We’ll cover implants (single and full-mouth), cosmetic dentistry (veneers, crowns, bonding), and what kind of protocols and pricing you can expect.
Dental Implants Abroad (Single & Multiple)

Dental implants are one of the most sought-after treatments abroad, as they are notoriously expensive in the UK. An implant involves placing a titanium screw in the jawbone to replace a missing tooth root, then later attaching a crown.
Location | Typical price per implant | Inclusions | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
UK (private) | £2,000–£2,500+ per implant | Implant + crown | Higher in some London clinics. |
Turkey | £500–£800 per implant | Implant + crown (in many cases) | Top brands available (e.g., Straumann, Nobel); lower overheads/lab fees. |
Hungary | £800–£1,100 per implant | Implant + crown (in many cases) | Top brands available (e.g., Straumann, Nobel); lower overheads/lab fees. |
Pricing note: Ranges are indicative; final quotes vary by case complexity, brand, lab work, sedation, and need for bone grafts/sinus lifts.
These lower costs are achieved without compromising on implant brands – clinics frequently use top-quality implants like Straumann or Nobel Biocare, but the overheads and lab fees are lower than in Britain.
To illustrate, BookingDentist’s partner clinics list Straumann implant + crown packages in Budapest for around €950 total, whereas in the UK a Straumann implant alone might cost £1,500+.
For more information on dental implants, read our comprehensive guide to dental implants in 2025.
Implant protocols in Hungary and Turkey
Both countries follow international standards for implant surgery. The classic two-stage approach (with a 3-6 month healing period before the crown) is common, but many clinics also offer “immediate implant” techniques where a temporary crown or bridge is placed within 1-2 days of surgery (particularly for All-on-4 systems or front-tooth implants). Immediate loading is only done if bone conditions are good – your dentist abroad will evaluate via 3D CT scans on day one. If you are eligible, you could return to the UK with fixed teeth in place during the same trip, rather than a removable denture.
However, even with immediate temporaries, you will usually need to return for the final permanent teeth. The second trip is important to ensure the implants have integrated properly and to fit high-quality final restorations (often zirconia or porcelain). The need for two visits is a critical aspect to plan for when comparing costs – you’ll have to budget for a repeat flight and time off a few months later. Even so, the combined cost can still be far lower than doing it all at home. (Some UK patients cleverly coordinate their follow-up trip with a holiday or split it over two vacation periods.)
Aftercare and Warranty
Good implant clinics abroad stand by their work. It’s common to get a written implant warranty of 5-10 years, and Booking Dentist partner clinics even offer lifetime guarantees on the implant fixtures. This peace of mind often exceeds what’s offered by UK private practices.
Treatment example: A UK patient with several missing teeth could get an All-on-4 in Turkey for ~£3,000 per arch, or in Hungary for ~£4,000 – versus £12,000+ per arch quoted in Britain. Even factoring flights and accommodation, the savings per arch can be £7,000 or more. It’s easy to see why even basic implant cases (single tooth) are now prompting Brits to hop on a plane.
All-on-4 and All-on-6 Full-Mouth Implants
For patients with many failing or missing teeth, All-on-4 implants have been a game-changer. This technique uses 4 implants to anchor a full arch bridge (often done on both upper and lower jaws, hence “full-mouth”).
Location | Typical price (per arch) | What’s included (typical) | Timeline (2 visits) |
---|---|---|---|
UK (private) | £12,000–£20,000 per arch | Consultation, any extractions, 4 implants, temporary fixed bridge, final bridge |
Visit 1: Fixed acrylic provisional bridge placed on 4 implants. Visit 2 (4–6 months): Return for durable final bridge (metal-reinforced acrylic or porcelain on titanium). |
Turkey | £2,000–£4,000 per arch | Consultation, any extractions, 4 implants, temporary fixed bridge, final bridge |
Visit 1: Walk away with fixed acrylic provisional bridge. Visit 2 (4–6 months): Final bridge fit (metal-reinforced acrylic or porcelain on titanium). |
Hungary | £3,000–£5,000 per arch | Consultation, any extractions, 4 implants, temporary fixed bridge, final bridge |
Visit 1: Fixed acrylic provisional bridge on 4 implants. Visit 2 (4–6 months): Final bridge fit (metal-reinforced acrylic or porcelain on titanium). |
Pricing disclaimer: Ranges are indicative; final quotes vary by case complexity, implant/bridge brand, lab work, sedation, and need for bone grafts/sinus lifts.
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Veneers, Crowns & Smile Makeovers

Cosmetic dentistry is another big draw for UK patients – especially porcelain veneers and ceramic crowns to create a “Hollywood smile.” This trend exploded on social media as “Turkey teeth”, with influencers boasting of getting 20 teeth done abroad for a bright white smile. While the trend has positives (affordable aesthetic dentistry), be cautious about aggressive treatment (drastic tooth preparation) in some cases. The key is to choose a reputable clinic that prioritizes minimally invasive techniques and quality materials. For more in-depth guidance on this topic, read our guide on smile makeovers in 2025.
Treatment | UK (private) | Turkey | Hungary | Typical timeline | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Porcelain veneers (per tooth) | £500–£1,000 | £180–£300 | £250–£400 |
5–7 days total: Day 1 consult & scans; Day 2 prep + temps; Days 3–5 lab work/try-in; Days 6–7 final fit. |
Turkey often has 16–20 veneer packages (hotel frequently included). |
Zirconia/porcelain crowns (per tooth) | £400–£800 | £100–£200 | £150–£250 |
5–7 days total: Day 1 consult & scans; Day 2 prep + temps; Days 3–5 lab work/try-in; Days 6–7 final cementation. |
Example: Budapest metal-ceramic crown ~€190 (£165); Turkey zirconia crown ~£150. Full-mouth (28 units) can be ~£4,000 abroad vs £15,000+ UK. |
Composite bonding (per tooth) | ~£150–£300 | ~£50–£100 | ~£50–£100 | Same-day or 1–2 days (often a single extended session). | Best for minor corrections; major smile changes usually use veneers/crowns. |
Pricing disclaimer: Ranges are indicative; final quotes vary by case complexity, material/brand, lab work, sedation, and any additional procedures.
High-end clinics have in-house labs and CAD/CAM milling machines, which can accelerate this timeline – sometimes completing everything in 4-5 days. Ensure you stay until the final fit is done and any adjustments are made; don’t rush off immediately after they’re glued, in case bite tweaks are needed.
Aesthetic Options
Both countries offer the latest cosmetic materials:
- Veneers – common options include E-max porcelain veneers (lithium disilicate ceramic known for lifelike translucency) and ultra-thin laminates (which require minimal prep).
- Composite veneers (bonded resin) – available for an even lower cost, but they don’t last as long (3-5 years vs 10-15 years for porcelain). Many Hungarian and Turkish dentists trained in the US/UK in cosmetic dentistry techniques, so you can get the same calibre of smile design. Always discuss the shade and shape you desire, and ask to see the clinic’s before-and-after photos or digital smile simulations.
- Crowns – you can choose zirconium crowns (metal-free, very strong and white) or porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) which have a metal core. Not sure which crown type suits you best? Our guide compares PFM vs. all-ceramic crowns for dental implants. Zirconia and E-max crowns are popular for front teeth due to superior aesthetics. If doing a full set (“smile makeover”), most patients opt for zirconia or E-max for a natural look. Turkey is known for offering gleaming white zirconia crowns in their packages. Hungary’s labs also produce excellent ceramic work – in fact, many European dentists outsource lab work to Hungary because of its skilled technicians.
Key advice: Don’t insist on an unnaturally bright shade or overly uniform look if the dentist advises against it. A good cosmetic dentist will aim for an improved but still healthy, natural appearance. Also, ensure only the necessary teeth are treated – avoid filing down perfectly healthy teeth unless absolutely needed. A responsible clinic will offer alternatives like orthodontics or minimal-prep veneers if appropriate, rather than just doing a one-size-fits-all “Turkey teeth” job.
Aftercare for veneers/crowns
These treatments typically come with shorter warranties (e.g. 2–3 years on veneers), since they can chip or develop issues if you grind teeth or have gum changes.
Many Booking Dentist partner clinics provide a few free nights in a hotel if you’re getting a large number of veneers or crowns – this is often built into “smile makeover packages”. They also might include extras like teeth whitening or a night guard in the deal. Your patient manager will make sure you get bundled deals if you’re doing multiple teeth.
Real patient experiences: Countless Brits have gone to Turkey for veneers – some very happy with the result, others encountering problems like sensitivity or root canals needed later (usually if teeth were over-prepared). The lesson is to choose a clinic with a solid track record in cosmetic cases, and one that doesn’t push unnecessary treatments. When done properly, a set of veneers or crowns abroad can transform your smile for a fraction of the UK price and be completed in one short trip.
Top 5 Dental Clinics in Turkey and Hungary
Choosing the right clinic is the most important decision you’ll make for your dental trip. Both Turkey and Hungary have hundreds of dental clinics. We’ve compiled a list of top 5 clinics in each country known for treating UK patients. These clinics are popular on the Booking Dentist platform and have excellent reputations for expertise, safety, and patient experience.
Top 5 Dental Clinics in Turkey
Turkey’s leading clinics tend to be concentrated in Istanbul, with some in holiday centres like Antalya and Izmir. Many offer all-inclusive packages (with transfers, hotels) and have multilingual staff. If you would like to research yourself, check out all of Booking Dentist partner clinics in Turkey, Istanbul, and Antalya.
- Vitrin Clinic (Istanbul)
A highly rated clinic known for quality implants and cosmetic dentistry. Offers free VIP transfers and specializes in implantology with frequent “hot deals”. (Rating: 4.99) - Dent Spa (Istanbul)
A full-service dental centre offering “everything in one place.” Renowned for high quality care, an award-winning team and handling complex cases. Very high patient demand. (Rating: 4.94) - Renova Clinic (Istanbul)
Provides Straumann implants and has accommodation next to the clinic for medical tourists. Known for free VIP airport pick-up and hot prices on cosmetic treatments. (Rating: 5.0) - Good Look Clinic (Istanbul)
Staffed by experienced implant surgeons and cosmetic dentists. Offers All-on-4/6 specialization. Many doctors are “awarded” and internationally trained. (Rating: 5.0) - Novus Klinik (Istanbul)
Specializes in implants (Straumann partner) and All-on-4, with experienced oral surgeons. Offers very competitive packages, making it popular among UK and German patients. (Rating: 4.95)
Top 5 Dental Clinics in Hungary
Hungary’s top dental clinics are concentrated in Budapest, though there are also renowned clinics in border towns like Sopron and Mosonmagyaróvár (popular with Austrian day-trippers). Hungarian clinics might be smaller than flashy Turkish counterparts, but they often excel in clinical excellence and have decades of experience with international patients (particularly from Western Europe). If you would like to research yourself, check out all of Booking Dentist partner clinics in Hungary and Budapest.
- Rosental Dental Clinic & Implantology Center (Budapest)
A flagship clinic offering on-site accommodation and a stellar team of implant specialists. Highly awarded and popular for complex implant cases. (Rating: 4.98) - Petőfi Dent (Budapest)
Full-service clinic known for All-on-4/6 expertise and “everything in one place” convenience. They handle advanced cases and have English- and German-speaking staff. (Rating: 4.96) - Dental Angels Budapest Smile Clinic
Offers premium implants (Nobel Biocare) with free accommodation for patients. They often have special deals for cosmetic work. Boutique experience. (Rating: 4.8) - Crystal Dental (Budapest)
Implantology-focused clinic with hot prices on packages. Known for using Nobel Biocare and employing leading implant surgeons. (Rating: 4.96) - Budapest Dental Solutions (Budapest)
A good choice regarding implantology, especially Nobel Biocare. (Rating: 4.79)
Hungarian clinics pride themselves on quality and trust. Many have been treating foreign patients since the 1990s. Look for membership in bodies like the Hungarian Dental Tourism Association or international quality certificates (some clinics list ISO certifications, etc., as seen on Booking.Dentist references).
The dentists often speak multiple languages.
One advantage in Hungary is that it’s in the EU, so standards of sterilization, materials (CE-marked implants), and regulation are very high (comparable to UK/EU clinics). Hungary has also been at the forefront of digital dentistry in Europe, so don’t be surprised to find cutting-edge tech.
How to Choose the Best Clinic
With so many options, keep these tips in mind:
- Check credentials: Ensure the dentist is fully qualified and experienced in the procedure you need. For implants, are they a specialist oral surgeon or periodontist? For cosmetic work, do they have additional prosthodontics training? Booking.Dentist highlights verified qualifications and encourages patients to examine them. Always ensure your dentist is reliable by checking how to verify Budapest dentists’ credentials and reviews.
- Read reviews and testimonials: Look for verified patient reviews on multiple platforms. Pay attention to feedback about communication, pain management, and aftercare support.
- Before/after galleries: A good clinic will show case studies of their work (with patient consent). This can give you an idea of their aesthetic style and capabilities.
- Clinical standards: Inquire if the clinic follows international protocols – e.g. are they ISO certified? Do they use well-known implant brands and dental labs? Do they have modern imaging (3D CT, CAD/CAM)? High standards here are a green flag.
- Language and support: Make sure they have fluent English-speaking staff and that you feel comfortable conversing with the dentist. Miscommunication can lead to mistakes.
- Warranty and aftercare: Ask about the warranty in writing. Also ask what happens if you have an issue once back in the UK – do they offer a local contact or will they help arrange care if you can’t fly back immediately?
- No pressure consultation: The clinic should offer a free initial consultation or online treatment plan without obligation. Be wary of any provider that pushes for upfront payment or rushes you to decide. You have the right to a second opinion.
- Booking via a trusted platform: Using a platform like Booking.Dentist can add a layer of security – they pre-screen clinics, and often you can get exclusive discounts, free consultations, and a patient support manager to assist. The platform also has a best price guarantee (matching or beating any direct clinic quote), so you won’t pay more than going direct.
By carefully evaluating clinics on these criteria, you can greatly reduce the risks of dental tourism and ensure you end up in safe hands.
Travel and Treatment Packages

Planning the logistics of your dental trip is easier than ever. Many clinics offer packages to handle the details so you can focus on getting treated (and maybe enjoy a mini-holiday). Let’s break down what’s typically included in “Turkey teeth” packages and similar deals, and other travel considerations:
Turkey Teeth Packages – What’s Included
Turkey is especially known for bundle deals targeting international patients. A standard package often bundles treatment with accommodation, transport, and extras. Here’s a breakdown:
Typically Included in Turkey Packages | Typically Not Included |
---|---|
✔️ Airport pickup & local transfers – Most clinics have a driver pick you up at the airport and shuttle you between hotel and clinic. | ❌ Flights to Turkey – You’ll almost always need to book your own airfare. (Clinics sometimes reimburse flight tickets, depending on your treatment price) |
✔️ Hotel accommodation – Many offer free hotel stays if your treatment cost exceeds a threshold. E.g. “7 nights free for full smile makeover.” Others negotiate discounted rates at partner hotels. | ❌ Travel insurance – It’s vital to get your own travel/medical complications insurance. Regular travel insurance usually does NOT cover elective treatment issues. |
✔️ Initial consultation & X-rays/CT scans – Packages cover the first exam, necessary X-rays or 3D scans, and treatment planning (often free even if you don’t proceed). | ❌ Sightseeing and meals – Any tourist activities, meals, etc., are on your own dime (unless your hotel includes breakfast). Some clinics do offer guided city tours as a perk, but it’s not the norm. |
✔️ Sedation or anesthesia – Local anesthesia is always included. Some packages also include conscious sedation (e.g. if you’re anxious) or offer general anesthesia at extra cost for big surgeries. | ❌ Extended stays – If you need to stay extra nights due to a complication or just to holiday longer, that cost is yours. Packages cover a set number of nights; changes come out-of-pocket. |
✔️ Personal coordinator/translator – You’ll usually be assigned a patient coordinator who speaks your language, to assist throughout. Translation services are included if needed. | ❌ Medications post-treatment – Minor costs like take-home medications (antibiotics, painkillers) may not be included, though often the clinic will provide initial meds free. Check if you’ll be charged for extras like mouthguards, etc. |
✔️ Treatment warranty & follow-up – The package will include the clinic’s warranty policy (e.g. free corrections during X years). Some premium packages include a follow-up visit or check-up if you return. | ❌ Follow-up care in UK – Any routine aftercare once back in the UK (stitch removal, hygiene, etc.) you’ll need to arrange and pay locally. |
Hungary’s clinics also sometimes have packages, but since it’s in the EU and patients often DIY their travel, you’ll more commonly get free transfers and help finding accommodation rather than a fully bundled “holiday package.” A few Hungarian clinics catering to Brits do advertise package deals (including hotel nights) especially for implant treatments, but it’s less of a standard practice than in Turkey. On Booking Dentist, you can see if a clinic offers free accommodation or transfers in the amenities list – many top clinics do.
Visa, Flights, Hotels, and Transport
- Visas – UK travellers to Hungary enjoy visa-free visits up to 90 days (Schengen rules)[3]. For Turkey, you can stay visa-free up to 90 days as well[4] – just ensure your passport is valid at least 150 days beyond your travel dates. As of 2025, no visa is needed for short treatment trips. From 2026, the EU is expected to introduce ETIAS authorisation for visa-waiver visitors, so UK patients will need to apply online before trips to Hungary once that system is in place.
- Flights – Book early for best prices. London to Budapest can be as low as £30 one-way on budget airlines (Wizz Air, Ryanair), while London to Istanbul averages £100-£200 return in off-peak. Antalya might have seasonal charters (for summer) or you can connect via Istanbul. If your dates are flexible, clinics might even suggest when to come (to align with lab schedules or surgeon availability).
Pro tip – allow a buffer day at the end of your trip before flying back, in case an appointment runs late or you need an extra adjustment. - Accommodation – If not included free, clinics often have partner hotels where they get special rates. They can book for you or give a recommendation. In Turkey, these are often nice 4-star hotels near the clinic or in a tourist area (some clinics have their own guest apartments). In Hungary, many patients book their own hotel or Airbnb in Budapest’s city centre – you can get very good value. Aim to stay somewhere with easy metro access or near the clinic district (many clinics in Budapest cluster near the city center, e.g. Districts V and VI).
- Local transport – With provided transfers, you might not need public transport or taxis at all for clinic visits. But if you wish to sightsee, Budapest has excellent public transit (a week pass is cheap) and Istanbul has options though traffic can be heavy – use their metro/trams to beat traffic when possible. Antalya is more spread out; clinics there usually drive you around. Always confirm your airport pickup details before departure (driver contact, etc.).
- Travel documents – Ensure your passport validity as noted (Hungary requires 3 months beyond stay, Turkey 150 days beyond entry). No visas needed for UK tourists for either, as of now[5][6], but check the latest FCDO travel advice before you go. Post-Covid, rules are basically normal but mask rules in clinics could exist – your clinic will inform you if any special health measures apply.
- Insurance – This is worth reiterating – get travel insurance that covers medical complications. Standard travel insurance usually excludes anything arising from planned medical treatment abroad[7][8]. However, specialist policies exist that cover medical tourism or you can add a rider for complications. This could help if, say, you had a serious infection after surgery and needed extra hospital care or a changed return flight. It’s a small extra cost for peace of mind. Also carry your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC/GHIC) for Hungary in case of emergencies – note it won’t cover the elective dental procedure, but would cover emergency healthcare if something else happens during your trip.
By handling these travel details, you can ensure your dental trip is smooth. Many patients describe the experience as “a well-organised tour” where the clinic arranges pickups, the hotel knows you’re a dental client, and everything runs on schedule. The more you clarify with your clinic coordinator in advance, the better – don’t hesitate to ask even trivial questions. Peace of mind is part of the package!
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Aftercare for UK Patients
What happens after you return home is just as important as the treatment itself. Good aftercare ensures your investment in a new smile lasts and that any issues are promptly addressed. Here we cover UK aftercare options, and maintenance tips for your new teeth. For more information about afteracare, read our post-op teeth maintenance guide
Follow-Up Care
If an issue arises, contact the clinic promptly. Reputable clinics often have 24/7 patient support lines (WhatsApp, etc.) and will advise you. Some might ask for photos or an X-ray you can get locally. They will then either invite you back for free corrective treatment or in rare cases coordinate with a UK dentist. For minor issues like a high bite or loose denture screw, they might suggest you see a UK dentist.
In an emergency (say, an implant infection right after you return), you may need immediate care in the UK. In such cases, the NHS will handle emergencies – e.g. extracting an infected implant or treating an abscess – but they will not typically replace the implant or do elective corrective work for free. So you might have to either return to the foreign clinic or pay a private UK dentist to fix the issue outside of emergent care. This underscores the value of the warranty and good communication with the foreign clinic.
Booking Dentist as a platform also offers assistance in case of issues – our patient support can liaise with the clinic if any problems come up. With us you are “supported beyond the chair”, as we help coordinate follow-ups or advice after you’re back home. Ultimately, the treatment contract is between you and the clinic (Booking.Dentist acts as an intermediary connector).
UK Aftercare Options
It’s wise to line up a UK dentist for routine care after your treatment. For example, if you get implants abroad, you’ll need periodic hygienist cleanings around them and annual check-ups/ X-rays to ensure they’re healthy. If you don’t have an NHS dentist or it’s mainly cosmetic work, you might choose a private dentist in the UK for ongoing care.
The cost of occasional private cleanings or check-ups is small compared to the savings you gained. This also creates a relationship in case you need help. For instance, if a veneer debonds in a year, a UK dentist might be able to simply re-cement it for a fee, saving you a trip.
Maintenance Tips
Protect your new dental work just like you would natural teeth:
- Follow the oral hygiene instructions given. Typically: brush twice daily (a soft toothbrush if you have veneers to avoid gum irritation), floss or use interdental brushes, and use any special mouthwash or fluoride treatment recommended.
- If you had implants or extensive crowns, consider investing in a water flosser – these devices help clean under bridges or around implants effectively.
- For All-on-4 bridges, you’ll need to clean under the bridge – the dentist will show you how (super-floss or special proxy brushes are used). Some patients remove their All-on-4 prosthesis periodically for a professional cleaning (the dentist unscrews it) – ask your clinic how they recommend maintaining it long-term.
- If you grind your teeth at night (bruxism), get a night guard (splint) made. Many veneer/crown packages include this; if not, get one in the UK. Grinding can quickly damage veneers or crowns. A £100 guard is worth the protection.
- Avoid using teeth as tools (don’t crack nuts or open bottles with your fancy new crowns!). Also, hard foods like bones or very sticky candies could chip porcelain – exercise caution.
- Diet – follow advice from your dentist and to support healing, follow this list of foods to avoid after implant surgery and post-op diet tips.
- Attend a dental check-up at least once a year, preferably twice. Even if everything feels fine, a dentist can spot early issues (like minor gum inflammation around an implant, or a hairline crack in a crown) before they escalate.
- Watch for signs of problems: excessive pain, prolonged swelling, a crown feeling loose, etc. If any arise, contact your foreign clinic and see a local dentist to evaluate. Do not wait – prompt attention can make a difference. For example, an implant infection (peri-implantitis) caught early can be treated without losing the implant. Protect your smile by understanding the key indicators of implant health and signs of failure.
Lastly, remember that Booking Dentist remains a resource even after you return. If you’re unsure whether something is normal during recovery, you can reach out to your patient manager or the platform support. They can often facilitate communication with the clinic (perhaps faster than you trying to call internationally) and get advice from the dentist for you. You are not alone after the treatment – the best clinics truly care about their “dental abroad” patients’ long-term outcomes, and a happy smile years later is the best advertisement for them.
Information is for education only. Price ranges are indicative; get a personalized quote for accuracy. Treatment timelines can vary per individual. And while thousands of UK patients safely get new smiles abroad each year, all procedures carry risks – do your research and consult qualified professionals. Booking.Dentist is a platform that lists and verifies clinics, but is not a healthcare provider. Always ensure you’re comfortable with the clinic and understand the plan before proceeding. With the right preparation, dental tourism to Turkey or Hungary can be a positive, cost-saving journey to a healthier smile.
Sources
[1] [2] [3] As UK dental system decays, surging numbers seek treatment abroad | Reuters
https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/uk-dental-system-decays-surging-numbers-seek-treatment-abroad-2023-12-11/
[4] Entry requirements – Hungary travel advice – GOV.UK
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/hungary/entry-requirements
[5] Entry requirements – Turkey travel advice – GOV.UK
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/turkey/entry-requirements
[6] ETIAS – Who should apply – Travel to Europe
https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/etias/about-etias/who-should-apply

Sofija is a content writer with over five years of experience. Specializing in dental treatments and dental work abroad, Sofija provides clear, research-based articles that help readers understand the latest knowledge in dental travel.