For patients in South Africa

Veneers in Turkey from South Africa: what to ask before you go

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells bonded to the front of the teeth to change their colour, shape or size. “Turkey teeth” has also become shorthand for smiles that look too white, too large, or were done with crowns when veneers were asked for. The difference lies mostly in the planning and in how much of your own tooth is removed. This page sets out what South African patients should ask, how long the trip takes, and how to look after the result at home.

Veneers or crowns: know which you are getting

A veneer covers mainly the visible front surface of a tooth, often with minimal preparation in suitable cases. A crown covers the whole tooth and needs much more of it to be filed away, which cannot be undone. Crowns are sometimes the right choice for heavily filled, broken or root-treated teeth, but they should never be a surprise. Ask any provider, in writing:

• How many teeth will be treated, and is each one a veneer or a crown?
• How much of each tooth will be prepared, and why?
• Which material will be used, and what are the alternatives?
• Will you see a digital smile plan before anything is prepared?
• Who is the treating dentist, by name?

Our dentists are listed on clinic facts, and the treatment itself is explained on the veneers page.

Who veneers suit

Veneers can improve discolouration that whitening does not shift, worn or chipped edges, uneven shapes and small gaps. They are not a fix for gum disease, active decay or a bite problem; those need treating first, and a careful dentist will tell you if whitening, bonding or orthodontics would serve you better.

How long the trip takes

Most patients complete veneer treatment in five to seven days: assessment and planning, preparation, temporary teeth while the veneers are made, then fitting and adjustment. Because this is dental treatment rather than major surgery, the long flight home is less of a medical concern, but plan your dates so the fitting is not squeezed into your last day. Book a return ticket you can change in case an adjustment is needed.

Looking after veneers in South Africa

Veneers need the same care as natural teeth: brushing, flossing and regular check-ups. You will need a dentist at home for routine care, so:

• Ask for a written record of the treatment, the materials used and your X-rays or scans to take home
• Tell your dentist in South Africa before you travel, and book a check-up for after you return
• Ask whether you should wear a night guard if you grind your teeth

What our treatment guarantee covers for dental work is set out on that page, and how complaints are handled is published on our complaints page.

What we will not do

We will not file down healthy teeth for crowns when veneers would do, we will not treat more teeth than your smile needs, and we will not start before you have seen and agreed the plan.

Frequently asked questions

How long do I need to stay in Turkey for veneers?

Usually five to seven days, depending on how many teeth are treated. Leave room in your dates for an adjustment after fitting.

What is the difference between veneers and crowns?

A veneer covers mainly the front surface of a tooth, often with minimal preparation. A crown covers the whole tooth and needs much more of it removed, which cannot be undone. Ask which you are being offered for each tooth, in writing.

What decides the cost of veneers?

The number of teeth, the material, whether any teeth need crowns or other treatment first, and what the package includes, such as accommodation and transfers. A firm figure is only possible after a dental assessment.

Can my dentist in South Africa look after Turkish veneers?

Yes, for routine care. Bring home a written record of the treatment and materials, and your scans or X-rays, so your dentist knows exactly what was done.

Will my medical aid cover veneers?

South African medical schemes generally do not cover cosmetic veneers. Ask yours if you are unsure.

Start with a free online consultation. Planning the trip? Read the guide for South African patients and the e-Visa guide.