With the rise in people traveling abroad for dental work and cosmetic procedures, experts are warning that older patients face unique risks that aren’t widely discussed. Dr Rajesh Vijayanarayanan, founder of dental implant specialists21D, said that while cost savings may be tempting, patients over 50 need to be aware of complications that arise due to aging, underlying health conditions and lack of aftercare when returning to the UK.
Dr Vijay said: “When patients undergo surgery abroad, the ability to access immediate follow-up care in the event of complications is often limited. It is therefore essential for patients to understand these risks in full before making a decision about dental treatment.”
The dentist said that as we age, our oral health becomes more complex. Bone density decreases, gum health declines, and underlying conditions such as diabetes or osteoporosis can affect healing. Many overseas clinics prioritise speed, often completing major procedures in a matter of days. While this may sound convenient, it leaves little room for proper healing or addressing complications. In contrast, high-quality implant procedures require careful planning, bone assessment, and follow-up care: these are critical factors that can be overlooked in high-volume, fast-turnaround clinics abroad.
“There are risks that apply to everyone seeking treatment overseas, but many of those risks are magnified by additional risk factors present in patients over the age of 50,” said Dr Vijay.
He added: “Unfortunately, as you age, the very act of getting on a plane begins to pose a greater health risk. Long-distance travel poses additional risks for older adults, including blood clots and fatigue. For those recovering from surgery, the stress of travel can hinder healing and complicate recovery.
“Language differences can lead to significant misunderstandings about procedures, risks and aftercare instructions. Workarounds such as translation apps are imperfect as a solution in any case, but are less accessible for older patients. This is particularly concerning for older adults, who may require more detailed explanations and support, especially if any comorbidities are present.
“Approaches to patient care and the ethical considerations surrounding medical practices can also differ across cultures. What is considered standard practice in the UK may not be mirrored abroad, leading to potential misalignment in patient expectations.
“The standards of care and regulation can vary significantly between countries. While many clinics in Turkey market themselves as high-quality providers, there is often limited oversight. Patients may encounter facilities that do not meet the rigorous standards of care and hygiene found in the UK.”
“Another significant risk is the variability in standards of care and materials used in some overseas clinics,” said Dr Vijay. “While cost savings might attract patients, some clinics may use lower-quality implants or outdated techniques to keep prices low. This can result in implant failure or additional complications over time, leading to higher overall costs and more invasive corrective treatments.”
Dr Vijay said that, for older adults, the potential for complications from procedures increases , particularly if there are underlying health issues. If complications arise post-treatment, seeking follow-up care in the UK can be challenging and costly, especially when dealing with overseas providers who may not offer adequate support.
“Common issues like infections, misaligned implants or inadequate healing may arise, and addressing these problems typically requires a return trip to the original clinic,” Dr Vijay said. “UK-based dentists may hesitate to take over such cases due to the complexity of repairing work performed elsewhere, leaving patients in a vulnerable position.”
Unfortunately, the risks do not end when your plane touches down on home soil. Patients who undergo procedures abroad may find themselves lacking important legal protections if something goes wrong during or after their procedures; in the event of malpractice or dissatisfaction with the results, pursuing recourse can be difficult and may involve navigating foreign legal systems.
Dr Vijay said that as the demand for overseas medical procedures continues to grow, it is crucial for British adults over 50 to thoroughly research and consider the potential risks. Consulting with a trusted healthcare professional before making any decisions can provide valuable insights and help ensure that patients are making informed choices about their health.
While the prospect of affordable dental work and cosmetic procedures abroad may be appealing, the associated risks – particularly for adults over 50 – cannot be overlooked. Prioritising safety and quality care should always come first when it comes to health and wellbeing.
Patients experiencing significant tooth loss may benefit from exploring full-mouth dental implants: for suitable candidates, this may be a far more cost-effective option than pursuing single implants.
“Dental professionals must conduct comprehensive clinical assessments to determine the suitability of full-mouth implants for each individual, considering factors such as oral health, overall health and specific dental needs,” said Dr Vijay. “However, for suitable candidates, full-mouth dental implants represent a transformative solution for individuals facing the challenge of significant tooth loss. At your initial assessment, a clinician will take CBCT scans, intra-oral scans and facial photographs, allowing us to analyse your dental needs thoroughly and provide a personalised, fully costed treatment plan on the spot. The cost will remain the same, regardless of how complex the situation is for the patient or how much additional work is required. ”