Before You Book Dental Treatment in Turkey: 12 Questions to Ask

You don't need to be a dentist to have a productive conversation with a dental clinic. You need the right questions, asked the same way of every clinic, with the answers written down.

Here are twelve worth asking before you book. None of them requires clinical knowledge. All of them will help you understand what you're actually agreeing to.

About who you're dealing with

1. What is the clinic's full legal name and address?

A brand name or social media handle isn't enough. You want the name of the business that will provide your treatment and take your payment.

2. Who will be responsible for my treatment?

Ask for the name of the dentist who will plan and carry out your treatment, and whether it will be the same person throughout. If several clinicians are involved, ask who is ultimately responsible.

3. Am I talking to the clinic directly, or to an agency or coordinator?

Many patients first speak with a coordinator, facilitator or agency rather than the clinic itself. That's common. But it affects who you contact if something goes wrong, and whether a commission is included in the price. See Clinic, Coordinator or Travel Agency?

About the price

4. Can I have an itemised written quotation?

Ask for each element to be listed separately, not just a single total.

5. What is not included?

This is often the most revealing question. Common items to ask about include imaging, temporary work, medication, additional appointments and any extra procedures that might be needed. Read more in What Does a Dental Quotation Really Include?

6. What happens if the plan changes after my examination?

Online quotations are usually based on photos or scans you send. Ask how the price would be handled if the in-person examination leads to a different plan, and whether you can decline changes without penalty.

About payment and commitment

7. How much is the deposit, and what does it secure?

Is it a booking fee for a date, a payment towards treatment, or both?

8. Under what conditions is the deposit refundable?

Ask specifically about refunds if you cancel, if the clinic cancels, or if you decide not to proceed after your in-person consultation. See Before You Pay a Deposit.

9. Which payment methods do you accept, and will I receive a receipt or invoice?

Payment records matter if you ever need to raise a dispute.

About your trip and afterwards

10. How many days will I need to stay, and how many visits are involved?

This affects your flights, accommodation and time away from work. Ask whether a second trip might be needed.

11. What follow-up is offered once I'm home, and how does it work?

Ask what is included, who you contact, and what happens if you need help that can't be given remotely. See Questions to Ask About Follow-Up Care Before Returning Home.

12. Who do I contact if I'm unhappy, and how are complaints handled?

A clear answer, given calmly, is a good sign.

How to use these questions

• Ask every clinic the same questions. That way the answers are comparable.
• Ask for written answers to anything involving money, refunds or responsibilities.
• Notice the tone. Questions should be welcomed, not treated as an obstacle to a sale.

Our Clinic Checklist includes these questions and more, with space for notes on each clinic. You can print it or save it as a file.