Lana’s Story

I was in need of a range of dental treatments – including implants. The treatment in the UK was going to be eye-wateringly expensive and I really wasn’t sure if or when I’d be able to afford it. Ayse was introduced to me by a friend. Having discussed my needs she I became quickly reassured that the treatment I wanted was possible – and well within my budget. I hadn’t thought of having treatment abroad, but suddenly the possibility was not only financially sensible, but it also gave me the opportunity for an adventure!

I gave Ayse a copy of my CT scan (provided by my dentist) and a photo of my smile. She then consulted her specialists who devised my treatment plan. My plan closely resembled that provided by my own dentist but with some useful suggestions to compliment the treatments on offer. I felt involved at every stage. Ayse arranged my flights and my hotel which helped to take away any anxieties I might have had about travelling abroad.

Day 1

In the company of my husband and daughter I flew to Izmir (Turkey) with Ayse. We arrived at midday and were picked up from the airport and taken to our hotel. Ayse helped us to settle in and feel welcome. We were left to rest until 3:30 pm when Ayse picked us up and drove us to the clinic. We were greeted by Dentist Yeliz and Prof Mubin. I was re-examined and another OPG scan taken. We went through my dental plan again. Once we were happy, the team started on my treatment. Three of my implants were fitted by 8 pm the same day(!) I was advised to add a cold compress (arranged by Ayse) and given pain killers. Ayse kindly offered to stay at the same hotel to provide any support if needed, but actually it wasn’t really necessary – apart from adjusting my sleeping position with high pillows I had a surprisingly comfortable night.

Day 2

It was a rest day! It was April so it was not too hot and I was able to enjoy the sun. I was advised to eat soft food or soup. Ayse drove us to Ilica beach near Cesme. It was a gorgeous traditional fishing village with a turquoise sea and white sand. We did a little shopping and sightseeing and then Ayse took us to local fish restaurant. It was an amazing meal with lots of delicious mezes, salads and local fish.

Day 3

We returned to the clinic where work began on my fillings. Everything went smoothly. By the afternoon we were ready to go back to UK! It seemed a shame to leave so we decided to enjoy the time in Izmir. We went to local market called Kemeralti. It was heaven. We finished the day with massage and my husband and daughter enjoyed a Turkish bath (I was advised not to use the Turkish bath quite so soon after my treatment, but I did have a wonderful massage and beauty treatment – it cost next to nothing compared to prices in the UK!).

Day 4

We said our goodbyes to Dentist Yeliz and Prof Mubin who checked how I was getting on. I was booked in for my return treatment in three months’ time (when they will complete my implants) and then travelled to Gulluk, Bodrum. The scenery was amazing, olive groves and lakes. We travelled on to the coast where the local people were enjoying the late evening sun, and settled in another fish restaurant. Again, lots of delicious meze… (I was advised to have soup or some soft food to chew). Later that night we flew back to UK.

Three months later 21st of July

Day 1

I arrived in Izmir on a late flight. I was greeted by Ayse who picked me up and stayed with me at the hotel.

Day 2

We drove to the clinic where Dentist Yeliz and Prof Mubin welcomed me and checked my implants (I was reassured to be told they were in a very good condition). They were ready to fit my chosen porcelain crown and to start the rest of my implants. A model of my teeth was completed and I selected the colour of my crowns.

Day 3

We went to back to surgery again to test the fit of the new crowns. Once I was happy, they sent to be polished.

Day 4

In the evening my permanent crowns were ready. All were now fitted! It was an amazing feeling to have a full set of beautiful teeth again! I was happy to stay one more day – just to see how I would manage biting and eating. Ayse stayed with – it was reassuring to have her help and support through every step of the treatment and after-care.

Day 5

On my final day Ayse took me to one of the most breath-taking places I have seen in my life. We travelled by boat, a journey through time to Dalyan, a reed-fringed river curling below cliffs carved with ancient tombs. The river eventually pooled in a beautiful lagoon and here the river met the sea along a stunning expanse of white sand. This site is famous as an egg-laying destination for sea turtles who visit these shores each year – we walked along carefully marked boards across the sand to stand on an immense curving stretch of coastline, lines of white breakers as far as the eye could see, the fresh wind welcome beneath a bright sun and brilliant blue sky. My treatment had been a success – and my memories of this special part of Turkey will stay with me forever!