A Cautionary Tale About Turkey Teeth
A woman has shared her experience of getting a full set of veneers in Turkey, and it’s not exactly what she hoped for. Lola Montanna, a content creator from Australia, decided to go against the advice of many who warned her about the potential pitfalls of dental work abroad. She traveled to Istanbul, Turkey, to obtain super white veneers, hoping to achieve that perfect smile.
With 25,500 followers on TikTok, Lola documented her dental transformation, showcasing a striking before-and-after comparison that left many viewers shocked. In the initial part of her video, she can be seen sitting in a dentist’s chair, revealing her original teeth that had been significantly shaved down, which some viewers likened to ‘shark teeth’. Moments later, after her dental procedure, she opened her mouth to reveal her shiny new set of pearly whites.
Visibly thrilled with her new smile, Lola confidently posed for the camera, even running her tongue over her teeth to express her satisfaction. She zoomed in to give her audience a closer look, and while she appeared overjoyed with her results, she recalled the warnings she had received: “Don’t go to Turkey and get veneers.” Unfazed by the cautionary advice, Lola responded with a carefree attitude, stating, “You only live once.”
Although Lola did not disclose the exact amount she spent on her new smile, it is known that the cost of a full set of veneers in Turkey is significantly lower than in the UK, with prices ranging from £4,400 to £16,000 for full mouth reconstruction, compared to £16,000 or more in the UK. In Australia, where Lola is from, a full set of veneers typically costs between £4,900 and £9,700.
In her social media post, Lola explained her choice for the veneers, saying, “I chose them to get all one shape. They had different shapes you can choose from. I just wanted the perfect square fake look.”
Mixed Reactions on Social Media
The TikTok video posted under the username @lola.montanna quickly went viral, amassing an astonishing 9.4 million views, 629,400 likes, 7,742 comments, and 23,800 shares. However, the reactions were mixed, with many viewers gasping at Lola’s new smile. While some expressed concern that she might regret her decision in the future, others compared her teeth to ‘piano keys’ and ‘Lego pieces’.
- One user cautioned, “You’re gonna regret it in 10 years.”
- Another commented, “They look like Lego pieces.”
- A third added, “Veneers have never looked good to me; they look like blocks.”
Dentist-Approved Tips for Teeth Whitening
Dr. Erin Fraundorf, owner of BOCA Orthodontic + Whitening Studio in Missouri, shared some valuable tips for achieving whiter teeth:
- Seek whitening treatment from a professional. Professional treatments are often more effective and safer than over-the-counter products.
- Consider the cause of the staining. Different stains require different treatments, so it’s essential to get a professional evaluation.
- Consider your lifestyle, smile goals, and budget. Tailor your whitening plan to suit your specific needs and preferences.
- Ease into it. Gradually incorporate whitening into your routine to monitor sensitivity.
- Prevent staining. Make small lifestyle changes, like using a straw for staining beverages and rinsing with water afterward.
- Use a water flosser. This can help remove stubborn stains between teeth more effectively than a toothbrush.
Alongside crying emojis, one user asked, “Can you undo it?” while another criticized Lola’s veneers, saying, “Your veneers are very poorly made, no shape, no translucency. You can get better, more realistic crowns in South Africa. But each to their own.”
Despite the criticism, some viewers were supportive, with one woman stating, “These comments are filled with jealousy. Your teeth look amazing.” Another chimed in, “Girl, it’s the people without money hating. You had money to go to Turkey and get veneers; girl, you look amazing.”
The Risks of Cosmetic Surgery Abroad
If you are considering cosmetic surgery abroad, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research. While it may be more affordable than in the UK, potential savings must be weighed against possible risks. Here are some points to consider:
- Safety standards can vary significantly between countries.
- No surgery is entirely risk-free, and complications can arise regardless of location.
- In the UK, surgeons are responsible for providing follow-up treatment for complications, whereas overseas clinics may not offer the same level of care.
- Seek out healthcare professionals in your home country who can assist if any issues arise post-procedure.