Everything You Need to Know About Accessing Premium, Affordable Dental Care in Turkey
Traveling abroad for dental treatment comes with important questions. To help you feel confident and informed, we’ve answered the most common inquiries about dental tourism, affordable dental care, our services, and what to expect before, during, and after your treatment in Turkey.
FAQs
How much money can I actually save by getting dental treatment in Turkey vs. Canada?
Your exact savings will depend on the specific dental treatments you need and what you’ve been quoted in Canada. While savings on individual treatments can be as high as 86%, after factoring flights and accommodations, patients can save on average up to 70%.
Here’s a general cost comparison:
- Single Dental Implant (including crown) → Canada: $5,000 + | Turkey: $945–$1,500
- Full Mouth Restoration (All-on-4, Both Jaws) → Canada: $40,000–$80,000 | Turkey: $12,000–$21,000
These savings don’t come at the expense of quality. You’ll receive world-class, affordable dental care using high-end materials and European-standard techniques.
Why is Dental Care in Turkey So Affordable?
Dental care in Turkey is significantly more affordable than in countries like Canada, the U.S., and the U.K. This does not come at the cost of quality or expertise. Turkey benefits from structural cost advantages that allow clinics to offer world-class dental treatment at a fraction of the price. Here’s why:
- Lower Operational Costs – Running a dental clinic in Turkey is far less expensive than in North America or Western Europe. Real estate, utilities, and administrative costs are much lower, reducing overhead expenses for clinics.
- Competitive Labor Costs – Highly skilled dentists in Turkey earn less than their counterparts in Canada or the U.S., but this is relative to Turkey’s economy and cost of living—not a reflection of their expertise or training.
- Favorable Exchange Rates – The Turkish Lira (TRY) is weaker against major currencies like CAD, USD, EUR, and GBP, making high-quality dental procedures far more affordable for international patients.
- Government Incentives for Medical Tourism – Turkey actively promotes medical and dental tourism, offering tax incentives and financial support to clinics that serve international patients. This encourages high standards and affordability in the sector.
- Economies of Scale – Istanbul is a global hub for dental care, attracting a high volume of international patients. This allows top clinics to operate efficiently, using advanced equipment and high-quality materials at lower costs per procedure.
Affordable Dental Care Without Compromising Quality
Despite lower prices, Turkey’s leading dental clinics meet European treatment standards and use the same high-end materials and technology found in Canada and the U.S. With strict government regulations on private healthcare, Turkey remains a trusted destination for premium dental care at accessible prices.
Learn more about why turkey is a leader in affordable dental care.
Why should I trust Dental Pathways over booking directly with a clinic in Turkey?
At Dental Pathways, we prioritize your safety, trust, and treatment quality over the flashy marketing and aggressive sales tactics common in the industry. Unlike many providers focused on high-volume medical tourism, we offer a personalized approach with a hand-selected clinic that has treated us personally—so we stand behind its quality.
Because Dental Pathways is local in both Canada and Turkey, we understand both cultures, ensuring a seamless facilitation from start to finish. We also prioritize getting you in front of the best dentist early in the process while you’re still in Canada, so you’re speaking directly with a qualified professional before committing, rather than meeting your dentist for the first time on the day of treatment.
With first-hand experience of Turkey and its medical system, we are here to guide you every step of the way—from your initial consultation in Canada to your return home after treatment.
Find out more about our Canada-based, husband and wife team, Elif and Zahir.
Is it safe to travel to Turkey for dental treatment?
Absolutely. Istanbul is a major medical hub, welcoming thousands of international patients each year. Our recommended accommodations are in safe, central areas, and we can arrange private transfers between your hotel and the clinic for added convenience.
Beyond dental tourism, Turkey is one of the world’s top travel destinations, attracting over 60 million visitors in 2024 alone. This level of tourism reflects the country’s strong infrastructure, safety measures, and commitment to hospitality. Additionally, Turkey maintains high standards for private healthcare, with many dental clinics using European-standard materials and equipment.
As with any international travel, there are always risks to consider, but your safety is our priority. We’re here to guide and support you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience.
How do I know the dentist performing my procedure is qualified?
Choosing the right dentist is critical to your treatment success. That’s why we partner with established clinics with permanent, experienced specialists across all fields of dentistry.
We’ve Been Treated There Ourselves – We stand by our dental partners because we’ve been their patients ourselves. That’s why we can confidently recommend them to you.
Licensed, Certified & Experienced – Our dentists are fully licensed in Turkey, meeting European dental standards and holding specialized training in advanced procedures like affordable dental implants, full-mouth restorations, and cosmetic dentistry. Their certifications are fully transparent and available upon request.
Permanent, In-House Team – Many clinics cut costs by outsourcing work to temporary staff or recent graduates. Our partners employ permanent, in-house professionals, ensuring continuity, accountability, and consistently high-quality dental care.
English-Speaking Dentist – Your treating dentist speaks fluent English, so you’ll have full clarity from consultation to post-treatment aftercare.
Dentists with an Established Track Record – Our dentists have treated thousands of patients—both local and international—for years, long before the boom in dental tourism. Their Google reviews, patient testimonials, and long-standing reputation reflect their commitment to high standards and ethical care.
What’s included in my quotation? Are flights and hotels covered?
We prioritize transparency and flexibility, giving you full visibility on costs with no bundled pricing or hidden fees. Your quotation will cover the following:
- Consultations & treatment planning before your trip
- Your dental procedures & materials in Turkey
- Private airport transfers on arrival & departure
- Post-treatment follow-ups with your dentist
International flights and accommodations are not included—giving you full control over where you stay and how much you spend. Unlike tourism clinics who bundle everything into one price, we believe that separating treatment from logistics is far better, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
Need help with travel logistics? We provide free support with flight bookings, hotel recommendations, and local transportation coordination—but the final choice is always yours.
What Is the Process, from Start to Finish?
Our process is designed to be clear, seamless, and fully supported at every step. Here’s how it works:
- Discovery Call (Video Call with Dental Pathways)
- Speak with Elif, Zahir, or both to discuss your needs.
- Share any relevant dental history, past assessments, radiographs and estimates.
- We’ll pass your details to your dentist for review before your consultation.
- Virtual Dental Consultation
- Within 48 hours (or at your convenience), we’ll schedule a video call with your dentist.
- They’ll review your case, answer your questions, and discuss treatment options.
- Personalized Treatment Plan & Quote
- Your dentist will create a custom treatment plan outlining procedures, pricing, and timelines.
- We’ll provide a clear, no-obligation quotation so you can make an informed decision.
- You’ll have a chance to ask questions and, if needed, consult the dentist again.
- Travel & Logistics Support (If You Choose to Move Forward)
We provide guidance and support while keeping your travel flexible:
- Flights – We can assist with booking or you can arrange your own.
- Airport Transfers – Private transportation to and from your accommodation and the airport is included.
- Accommodation Guidance – We’ll discuss the pros and cons of staying in different areas of Istanbul, relative to the clinic and recommend hotels. You’re free to book any hotel or Airbnb you prefer.
- Local Transport – We’ll advise on getting around Istanbul. Private transfers between your hotel and the clinic can be arranged at preferred rates with our transportation partners.
Pre-Trip Preparation
- We’ll answer any remaining questions about treatment, travel, or logistics.
- We’ll give you insider tips on visiting Istanbul & Turkey so you feel fully prepared.
Arrival & Treatment in Istanbul
- Upon arrival, you’ll be met at the airport and taken to your accommodation.
- Your treatment will be performed at our partner clinic, by experienced dentists.
- If you have any questions whilst in Istanbul, we’re available to help.
Post-Treatment Recovery & Follow-Up
- Before you leave, we ensure you’re comfortable and fully informed on post-care.
- You’ll receive detailed recovery instructions and support as needed.
Ongoing Support After You Return Home
- We provide virtual follow-ups and remain available for any post-treatment concerns.
- If needed, we’ll help you coordinate with a local dentist for any future care.
How long will I need to stay in Turkey for my treatment?
The length of your stay depends on the treatments you need:
- Most basic procedures (dental crowns, dental veneers, root canals): Single trip, 3 to 5 days
- Single implants (first stage): 3 to 5 days (with a 2 to 3 month healing period before final crown placement)
- All-on-4/6 full arch restorations: 3 to 5 days for the first phase, with a return trip in 2 to 3 months for 8 – 15 days to place the final prosthesis.
Our partner clinics are always flexible to meet your schedule and needs – but never at the expense of treatment outcomes. Since you’ll be able to speak directly with a dentist early on in the process, you’ll get a clear understanding of your specific treatment timeline very quickly. We’ll help you plan everything, ensuring you receive the best care with minimal disruption to your schedule.
Will I be able to communicate with my dentist in English?
Yes! While not everyone in Turkey speaks English, and some dental staff may primarily speak Turkish, your treating dentists are always fluent in English. They will ensure that all treatment explanations, recommendations, and post-care instructions are communicated clearly.
You may occasionally encounter language barriers in Turkey, and that’s part of the fun if you ask us! But when it comes to your dental care, you’ll have no trouble understanding or being understood.
What happens if I experience complications after returning home?
While we work with highly skilled dentists, dental procedures—like any medical treatment—carry some risk. If any concerns arise post-treatment:
- Virtual Follow-Up – You can consult your dentist remotely for guidance.
- Local Dentist Support – We can leverage our relationships to help you find a dentist in Canada for adjustments.
- Revisiting Turkey – If needed, we can facilitate a return visit and support with costs wherever we can.
It’s important to us that we provide you with ongoing support and clarity so you feel confident about your treatment long-term.
Payments: Who and how do I pay?
All payments are made directly to the clinic. Your treatment quotation will be provided in EUR and CAD for reference purposes only, as final charges are processed in Turkish Lira (TRY). Due to exchange rate fluctuations, there may be slight variations in price between the quotation date and the final payment date.
Payment Methods:
- Credit Card – Processed in TRY, subject to a 3.81% surcharge.
- Cash – Accepted in TRY, USD, and EUR, converted at the prevailing mid-market exchange rate on the date of treatment.
Your final payment details will be clearly outlined in your treatment quotation.
Do I have to pay for everything upfront, or are there payment plans?
Full payment is due on your first day of treatment. At this time, we do not offer in-house financing.
Many of our patients choose to finance their treatment through third-party lenders or personal financial institutions. If financing is a concern, we recommend exploring medical financing options in Canada before making a decision.
How does Dental Pathways make money?
Transparency is important to us, and our revenue model is simple:
We are in a unique and strategic position to negotiate preferred rates with our partner clinics on your behalf. Those rates include a small facilitation fee that covers our role in introducing you to a trusted clinic and providing personalized guidance and support before, during, and after your treatment.
This way, you receive fair pricing with no hidden costs—and the confidence of working with a local, trusted partner who’s with you every step of the way.
Why should I choose Dental Pathways instead of booking directly with a clinic?
The dental tourism industry in Turkey (and elsewhere) is filled with opportunistic ‘pop up clinics’ set up by businessmen looking to capitalize on Turkey’s reputation as an affordable medical destination. However, picking the wrong clinic can be a nightmare! At Dental Pathways, we help cut through the noise and misinformation, offering transparency, guidance and patient-first care—a level of support that direct clinic bookings simply don’t provide.
- We Understand Both Worlds – Canada and Turkey
As founders with Canadian and Turkish ties, Elif & Zahir bring firsthand experience and cultural insight—ensuring you receive care that meets your expectations. With us, you won’t have to deal with language barriers, vague explanations, unanswered messages, or disorganized business practices characteristic of the majority of clinics set up for dental tourism. - A Local Team You Can Talk To
We’re based in Canada, so you have a real, accessible point of contact—before, during, and after your trip. No unanswered calls, no chasing for updates. - Specialized in Dentistry—Nothing Else
Unlike clinics that spread their focus across multiple treatments, we specialize exclusively in world-class dentistry in Turkey. That means no distractions, no diluted expertise—just high-quality, affordable dental care from specialists we trust. - Clinics We Personally Trust
We work exclusively with established clinics in the heart of Istanbul with track records of expert care—not “pop-up tourist clinics” focused on profits over patients. - Immediate Access to Your Dentist
Within 48 hours of speaking with either Elif or Zahir from Dental Pathways, you’ll speak directly with your treating dentist. No sales reps, no middlemen—and no meeting your dentist for the first time on the day of treatment. - Flexible Travel & Transparent Pricing
Unlike clinics that bundle treatment with hotels and transfers at inflated rates, we separate treatment from logistics, giving you full flexibility over where you stay and how much you spend. - Support at Every Step of the Way
From your first inquiry to post-treatment follow-up, we personally guide you through treatment, travel, and aftercare—so you’re never left figuring things out alone.
How Are Your Canada Price Comparisons and Savings Calculated?
The price comparisons and percentage savings shown on our website are based on fee guidelines published by Canadian provincial dental associations. These guides provide recommended pricing for dental procedures across Canada, serving as a reference for Canadian dentists.
However, actual prices in Canada may vary by 10-15% depending on the clinic, and lab fees are often charged separately, adding significant additional costs.
Abbreviated versions of these fee guides are publicly available on provincial dental association websites, while full versions (e.g., in British Columbia) may only be accessed by dentists or at public libraries.
For more details, visit:
British Columbia Dental Association
Ontario Dental Association
Alberta Dental Association