In Istanbul I experienced a true princess treatment! (Dental correction in Istanbul) – Report from Friday, 22 April 2016
Through conversations with friends about dental treatments abroad, I decided to make initial inquiries via email with Swisslasik. On one hand, I was impressed by the website, as it appeared very competent, friendly, and inviting to customers. The next step—since I had no experience with treatments abroad—was that I wanted a safe and reliable correspondence, with the expectation of having a truly trustworthy partner at Swisslasik. The communication was exemplary. After only 1 hour, I received a call for a more detailed needs assessment, which was very efficient. Further steps, such as the appointment confirmation, were completed that same morning, and in the afternoon, I already received all the travel documents, contacts in Istanbul, and the confirmed appointment as agreed. The top service certainly deserves polished 5 stars!
In Istanbul, I experienced true “Princess Treatment”! I was, like all new patients, a little uncertain inside about whether everything would go smoothly, and I understand any potential concerns. Rest assured, you can throw those out the window. I was picked up by a driver from the airport to my rented apartment, and he then took me back to my dental appointment as agreed (the traffic in the 11-million-strong city leads to small delays of 5-10 minutes). I was also driven back after the appointment and to the airport for my follow-up appointment. It couldn’t have been more convenient!
The Acibadem Clinic is one of the most well-known in Turkey and has an excellent reputation. I was told by many well-mannered locals about the investments made in training at their own academy, and that only the best doctors are hired at the Acibadem Clinic. This is absolutely true! Dr. Öztürk speaks highly educated English, and if you only speak German, a very nice and polite interpreter will accompany you throughout your entire stay at the clinic. There is also a concierge on-site who takes great care of all requests (organizing drivers, guiding you through the clinic, informing the X-ray department).
Dr. Öztürk performed a complete analysis of each individual tooth based on the X-ray taken at the clinic. I have never received such competent, detailed advice in my 43 years, with plenty of time, precise explanations, and long-term perspectives. This gave me the opportunity to put together my own “program.” I decided to proceed in stages, as I had quite a few issues to address. The first phase included two fillings and a night guard because I grind my teeth heavily, and they are suffering from tooth wear. Additionally, one tooth needed to be completely replaced. I was able to watch and experience firsthand how the 3D printer created my perfectly fitted porcelain tooth.
The clinic is equipped with the latest technology and feels more like a hotel. Bright, open, modern, exclusive, with a Starbucks in the lobby and even a pianist playing Bach and Mozart. In just one appointment, lasting 4 hours, I had a full X-ray, analysis, fillings, a porcelain tooth, and the night guard done. The next day, I was scheduled for a follow-up appointment, which was timed so that I could be driven straight to the airport afterward. Clever, right? 🙂
In terms of price, it truly is a saving of up to 70%. During my conversation with Dr. Öztürk, all costs were openly presented to me with a cost estimate, and I was able to decide on all the procedures and appointment phases myself. Transparent. Clear. Easy to understand. This is where the customer is still king. There are no waiting times, and patients are not just left sitting in the chair as often happens in Switzerland. The doctor advises and works in competent cooperation with the customer/patient.
I have now been back in Switzerland for a few days. The night guard fits perfectly, my teeth shine as if freshly polished, and the results of the fillings and the new porcelain tooth are simply brilliant. The best materials from Switzerland and Austria are used, though I unfortunately forgot the names of the manufacturers. However, the packaging is shown to you, and you can read in brochures about the quality seals and certifications that represent the materials and their manufacturers.
Next month, as agreed, I will fly to Istanbul again for the next treatment step at the Acibadem Clinic. One thing is clear to me: I will no longer visit a dentist in Switzerland. I was always frustrated with having to miss business appointments or ask the neighbor to pick up the kids because the dentist always kept me waiting (30-60 minutes, even though I always call ahead to reschedule appointments if there are significant delays). Never before has a dentist conducted a comprehensive analysis for the next 10 years. Today, I am aware of the risks and can plan for the long term without the fear of sudden high costs catching me off guard.
Better, more pleasant, more competent, and more lovable— it just doesn’t get any better than this!
Additionally, I had plenty of time to enjoy the wonderfully beautiful city of Istanbul in all its facets! I traveled alone as a woman and felt completely comfortable during the 4 days.
Esthi Bichler, Zurich