My experience at an Istanbul clinic - veneers too white, implants didn't match, and how they handled when I explained I didnt like the veneers (with receipts)
Sharing this for anyone researching dental work in Turkey. I went to a clinic in Istanbul (it is called Maltepe Dental Clinic) for a set of veneers in 2024, then back in January 2026 for two implants, about $10k total across both trips.
The veneers came out far whiter and more unnatural than what I'd discussed. Multiple people have commented on how unnaturally white they look. The clinic's only offer was a full-price redo.
They confirmed in writing that a specific doctor I requested would do my procedure. On arrival, a different doctor was assigned with no notice or consent. When I raised it, the coordinator didn't deny it, he explained it away as scheduling. A clear bait-and-switch on a written commitment.
The two implants don't match my veneers in shade or shape. I raised this concern before placement, multiple times, and was verbally assured they'd match. They don't.
Before the second trip, I told them I was unhappy with the veneers and they said to come in person so they could help. I flew from the US on that promise. Once there, the help vanished, no accommodation, no credit, just "pay full price to redo it." I also waited hours past my appointment times on multiple days.
For ~2 years I tried to resolve this privately and politely, in person and in writing. I got generic "come in and we'll evaluate" responses that went nowhere. My written request for a fair resolution was declined.
Then I posted public reviews. Within ~48 hours there was suddenly a video call with management and a 40% redo discount. The same concerns ignored for two years became urgent the moment they were public. I could not fly back a third time to pay thousands more to people who'd already missed twice. (I am technically a third time paying customer for them for a service dissatisfaction)
After I followed up with documentation of everything, they went silent on me directly, but posted a public reply to my review aimed at other readers, saying I'd approved everything and that taste "varies by culture." Energy for strangers, none for me**.**
Anyone considering dental work in Turkey: First of all, you get what you pay for and all these US (or western) dentists are more expensive for a reason. And when you have problems like me, US dentists would do anything to keep my happy and come to an agreement and work with me. The protections and the warranties are obviously much better in the US and this clinic, Maltepe dental clinic, said that my dissatisfaction could not be met for the warranty. Verbal assurances meant nothing in my case. If you're unhappy, "come back in person" may be all you get, and once there, the answer is "pay full price again." You have little recourse as an international patient regardless of what's promised before you fly.
I should say that not all Turkish clinics are like this and people have good results. But this was my experience and I wanted to share it since I have been really depressed and my social life has been destroyed because I feel so insecure about my teeth looking so unnatural. I'd have wanted the warning for those who are considering veneers, especially in Turkey where it is so far away. I would not NEVER recommend getting veneers over your natural teeth. I learned it in a hard way and I regret it soo much. This has really f**ed me up and I am in my 20s. I feel so regretful.