Meta: A new trend going viral on social media called “Turkey teeth” has dentists concerned.
We’ve heard of some weird internet trends before (remember the cinnamon challenge?), but this new trend sounds pretty strange. It’s called “Turkey teeth” and it’s growing in popularity on social media channels like TikTok and Instagram. But what is it, and should you jump on the bandwagon?
Turkey teeth is truly a viral sensation, with the hashtag #turkeyteeth exceeding 130 million views on TikTok. It’s the trend of social media influencers heading over to the country (not the bird!) Turkey for cheap cosmetic dental work. But is this a good idea, and does it really save money? Here’s why the Turkey teeth trend may not be all it’s cracked up to be.
Medical tourism is not a new concept. People have been going abroad for plastic surgery and cosmetic dental work for decades at their own risk, however this has been met with mixed results. This is because unlike here in the United States, many of the countries offering discounted prices on these procedures do not have the same medical certifications we have here, such as board certifications and licensing. Basically, anyone could be performing your procedure out of anywhere, and you’d never be the wiser until there was a problem. Unfortunately, by that point it could be too late, and again, unfortunately, that happens all too often.
The danger with Turkey teeth is that not only do you not know if the dentist you are seeing is a legitimate dentist, you also don’t know if their before and after photos are really theirs. There may not be anyone checking up on this person to be sure they are practicing proper safety protocols, that they know how to perform the procedures they are advertising, or that they are licensed to practice those procedures.
For teeth, this can be extremely dangerous because when relying upon an untrained practitioner, serious complications can occur, including damaged or lost teeth and dangerous infections.
Thus, when you add up the so-called savings, you could end up paying a lot more. By the time you factor in travel to and from your medical destination, room and board, meals, the procedure itself, and of course the treatment for potential complications, it could be the same if not more than having the procedure done here in the US. Worse yet, should you return to the US and develop complications, you may not be able to afford to (or have time to) return to the destination where you received your dental work and may have to pay out of pocket for emergency services to correct any damage here in America.
The bottom line on Turkey teeth? This is one trend to avoid at all costs. If you’re interested in cosmetic dentistry, speak to Dr. Abelar about your options. He can customize a treatment plan just for you. Remember, if something seems too good to be true cost wise, it usually is. Cosmetic dentistry is an investment in your oral health, and not something to take risks with and cut corners on.
To schedule a consultation for cosmetic dentistry, or to schedule your exam, please contact Dr. Abelar’s office today.
