Survey reveals risks of ‘cheap’ overseas dentistry

A recent survey by the British Dental Association and the British Endodontic Society has prompted concern.

It found that 70% of dentists reported an increase in the number of patients returning from abroad with botched dental treatment. Almost 50% of the complications resulted in irreversible damage to people’s teeth.

This is exactly what happened to Liverpudlian woman Jade Morgan, who flew to Dubai in March 2025 to have porcelain veneers fitted. She had been inspired by social media to make the trip, under the illusion she could get cosmetic dental surgery done on the cheap.

Hoping to get a better smile, Morgan’s treatment got off to a bad start when her bite felt wrong. Her tooth was then drilled for two hours before she flew home. A fortnight later, one of her teeth broke in half.

Morgan also suffered bleeding gums after the procedure and claims she never had temporary veneers installed. This would be common practice in the UK in order to give patients an idea of the envisaged size and shape, ahead of any necessary changes. As a result, she was unable to register her smile until the final veneers were already cemented permanently.

Morgan’s ordeal graphically illustrates the importance of booking highly professional care and not being seduced by misleading price comparisons. It is vital that anyone looking for new veneers should follow proper planning, undergo staged treatment and ensure they have accessible aftercare.

If you’re looking for tailored cosmetic dentistry in Chester, call our team at Art of Dental Care today to set up a consultation.