As May 12th highlights the beginning of National Smile Month and the importance of oral health across the UK, many British patients are continuing to seek dental care in Turkey due to the ongoing challenges facing NHS dentistry. Following April’s BBC report on Dentists reducing the NHS services due to the increased National Insurance contributions, Istanbul-based Dentakay is showcasing the success stories of UK visitors by turning to its clinics for both restorative and cosmetic dental care.
One of these patients is Anthony Peacock. Anthony travelled to Dentakay after struggling with long-term dental issues and limited access to treatment.
“I was feeling completely hopeless; very self-conscious and unable to smile freely,” says Anthony. “With the expense of dental treatment in the UK and NHS waiting time, I decided to visit Dentakay. I couldn’t be more thrilled with the results. I now have a smile that I’m proud of.”
Anthony’s treatment included 11 extractions, 10 dental implants, a sinus lift and bone grafting — part of a full-mouth restoration delivered at Dentakay’s flagship clinic in Istanbul. His case is one of thousands that highlight the clinic’s reputation for clinical excellence, patient care, and accessible treatment.
Dentakay Founder, Dr Gulay Akay, says “More and more patients are telling us they’ve simply given up on trying to access NHS dentistry. National Smile Month is an opportunity to remind people that there is another way forward. We’re proud to offer safe, affordable, and high-quality treatment that meets the standards patients deserve.”
Dentakay welcomed over 6,000 British patients in 2024, up from 5,500 in 2023 — reflecting a significant and growing demand for alternatives to UK-based dental care. The clinic completed more than 35,000 dental implants last year, maintaining a 99% success rate for corrective procedures.
British patients typically travel to Dentakay for procedures such as dental implants, crowns, root canals, and smile makeovers, with many opting for both cosmetic and restorative medical
care in a single visit. With treatment costs significantly lower than in the UK — often less than half the price — patients also benefit from thorough pre-treatment planning, experienced clinicians, and comprehensive aftercare.
As National Smile Month encourages people to prioritise their dental wellbeing, Dentakay continues to provide a trusted and effective solution — restoring confidence and delivering high standards of care to patients from across the UK.
