Is Love Island fuelling a rise in dental tourism?

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The growing popularity of reality shows like Love Island could be behind a rise in dental tourism, experts believe.

The hit ITV2 show, which is currently airing, features a string of contestants, most of whom boast mega-watt smiles. Dentists believe that the popularity of Love Island and similar shows is fuelling an increase in dental tourism. This year, one of the first stories to hit the headlines was the secret of Jack’s ultra-white smile. In a clip that introduced him to the nation, the lovable Essex boy who sells pens for a living explained that his bright smile was the result of a recent trip to a dental clinic in Turkey. Three weeks later, and Google has seen an increase in searches for ‘veneers in Turkey’ and associated terms of more than 100 percent.

Dental tourism has hit the headlines in recent years, as more and more people travel abroad to take advantage of cheaper dental treatment. In some countries, it’s possible to save up to 70 percent on UK prices, but dentists are worried that people are being lured in by special offers and discounts that appear too good to be true. While many clinics offer excellent standards of care, there are much greater risks associated with going overseas for treatment. Clinics may not be regulated as strictly as in the UK, and dentists may not have the same level of experience and expertise.

Dr Alistair McGill, from New Town Dental, said that dental holidays are appealing to consumers because they promise low prices and the chance to get away, but there are real risks involved, and Dr McGill said that he has seen many patients who require corrective treatment after undergoing treatment abroad.

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