ISTANBUL, Turkey, Feb. 3, 2026– Maltepe Dental Clinic has revealed that 60% of UK patients at its Istanbul facility choose minimal-prep EMAX veneers rather than full crown preparations, according to an internal audit covering January 2020 to December 2025.
The review of patient records also found that around 90% of UK patients opt for natural tooth shades and anatomical forms instead of ultra-white “Hollywood” smiles when given proper consultation. These findings come amid increased scrutiny of dental tourism, especially during the years when Turkey’s cosmetic dentistry trend gained global attention through social media.
Minimal-prep veneers require only a small reduction of tooth structure, unlike full crowns that remove significant enamel. “Patients with naturally-looking teeth don’t stand out, so they remain largely unknown,” said Dr. Yusuf Ilhan, chief dentist at Maltepe Dental Clinic. “When properly informed, UK patients consistently prefer conservative preparation and natural aesthetics over dramatic transformations.”
One notable case involved Amy, a UK patient who returned to the clinic five years after receiving EMAX veneers. Her original treatment showed no chipping or discoloration and maintained healthy gums. She returned for additional treatment on her lower teeth and referred family members for their own procedures, as featured in the clinic’s video, 5 Years Later – Still the Same Smile.
Maltepe Dental Clinic holds international certifications including ISO 9001:2015, ISO 13485:2016, ISO 10002:2018, and an International Health Tourism Authorization Certificate (IHTAC). The clinic operates its own laboratory and maintains a London office, the first Turkish dental clinic to establish a UK presence.
“The difference is not just the material but the dentist’s skill, conservative techniques, shade selection, and lab work,” said Dr. Alper Gurhan, a 20-year practitioner at the clinic. “Material costs are a small part of treatment; most value comes from clinical expertise and careful planning.”
The clinic emphasizes that while EMAX is promoted as a premium material, clinical skill and precise laboratory work are the primary factors determining the quality and longevity of veneers.