Veneers are thin shells bonded to the front of healthy teeth to change their colour and shape. Crowns cover the whole tooth and are used when a tooth is damaged or heavily filled. Implants replace a missing tooth with a titanium root and a crown on top. A good dentist chooses the option that removes as little healthy tooth as possible.
The three options side by side
| Porcelain veneer | Zirconia crown | Dental implant | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it is | Thin shell on the front of the tooth | Cap that covers the whole tooth | Titanium root with a crown on top |
| Used for | Colour, shape and small gaps in healthy teeth | Damaged, broken or heavily filled teeth | A missing tooth |
| Tooth preparation | Usually a thin layer at the front | The tooth is shaped on all sides | No neighbouring teeth are touched |
| Trips to Istanbul | One | One | Usually two, a few months apart |
What 'Turkey teeth' gets wrong
The term became known through cases where healthy teeth were filed down to small stumps for full crowns, when veneers or whitening would have been enough. Shaving healthy teeth is not reversible. Before you agree to a plan, ask which option is used for each tooth and why.
Questions to ask before treatment
- Will my teeth be prepared for veneers or for crowns, and how much will be removed?
- Is whitening enough for some teeth?
- Do I have gum problems or decay that should be treated first?
- What material is used, and do I receive a written treatment plan?
- What happens if a veneer or crown comes loose after I fly home?
How long do they last?
With good care, veneers and crowns can last many years. Brush twice a day, clean between the teeth, and see your dentist at home for regular check-ups. If you grind your teeth at night, a night guard protects the porcelain.
Planning your stay in Istanbul
Porcelain veneers at Esthebeyond cost from €210 per tooth and zirconia crowns from €160 per tooth. Plan 5-7 days in Istanbul. For a missing tooth, dental implants usually need two trips. Send a recent photo or X-ray, and the dentist explains which option fits each tooth.
This article is general information and does not replace your dentist's personal advice.
Sources
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Updated: · Information on this website is general and does not replace a medical consultation.