The Red Flags Checklist

Before you pay any deposit — read this. These are the exact questions that separate trustworthy clinics from ones to avoid.

What to Check Before You Book

  • Do they provide a detailed, itemised written quote? Vague pricing is a major red flag. You need line-by-line costs — implants, crowns, anaesthesia, X-rays, temporaries — before agreeing to anything.
  • Are CT scans and X-rays included in the price? Some clinics quote low, then charge separately for diagnostics. Confirm upfront what's in and what isn't.
  • What implant brand will they use? Ask for the manufacturer name. Reputable options include Nobel Biocare, Straumann, Osstem, and MegaGen. Unnamed or "local" brands carry higher risk.
  • Is there a written guarantee — and what does it cover? Get any guarantee in writing. Understand exactly what is covered, for how long, and what voids the guarantee (e.g., failure to attend follow-up).
  • Can they provide verifiable before/after photographs? Authentic patient photos (not stock images) are a positive sign. Ask for cases similar to yours.
  • Will the same dentist carry out the full treatment? High-volume clinics sometimes rotate dentists between patients. Consistency matters, especially for implants and full-arch work.
  • What is the dentist's qualification and how long have they been practising? Ask to see credentials. EU-qualified dentists (Hungary, Poland) operate under EU directives. Check independently where possible.
  • How do they handle complications after you return home? Complications can happen. Who do you call? Will they cover remedial treatment costs? Do they have a UK-based contact? Get this in writing.
  • Do they offer a free video consultation before travel? A reputable clinic will review your X-rays, discuss your case, and provide a preliminary treatment plan before you book flights.
  • Is the clinic registered with the relevant national health authority? In Hungary this is the National Public Health Centre (NNK); in Poland the Regional Medical Chamber; in Turkey the Turkish Dental Association (TDB).
  • Do they have independent reviews (Google, Trustpilot, not just their website)? Look for volume and recency. Hundreds of 5-star reviews posted in a short window can be a red flag.
  • What happens if a veneer chips or an implant fails within the first year? A clear, straightforward answer suggests a clinic that stands behind its work. Evasion or vague replies are warning signs.
  • Will your UK dentist be sent a full treatment record? Good clinical handover is essential for your ongoing dental health. Insist on full records — X-rays, treatment notes, implant specifications.
  • Are temporary crowns/restorations included while waiting for final work? For implants and full-arch cases requiring two trips, temporaries are essential. Confirm they're included — or what they cost if not.
  • What is the payment structure and deposit policy? Be cautious of clinics requiring large upfront deposits (over 30–40 %) before any work has begun. Understand refund policies if you need to cancel.
  • Are they pushing you to decide quickly or offering a "limited time" deal? Pressure tactics are a serious warning sign. A trustworthy clinic gives you time to consider and compare.
  • Do they have a dedicated patient co-ordinator who speaks English? Clear communication matters at every stage — from planning to aftercare. Language barriers increase the risk of misunderstandings.
  • What sterilisation protocols do they follow? All instruments should be single-use or autoclave-sterilised. Don't be afraid to ask — a good clinic will answer without hesitation.
  • Can they confirm the lab they use and where prosthetics are made? In-house or local EU labs generally offer higher quality control and faster turnaround than outsourced manufacturing.
  • Is travel and accommodation assistance available? Some clinics offer airport transfers or partnered hotel rates. Not essential — but a sign of an established, patient-focused practice.
Key: 🔴 Critical — must clarify before booking  |  🟡 Important — clarify before travelling

Download the Full Checklist (PDF)

Get a printable, shareable version of this checklist — including space to record each clinic's answers so you can compare side-by-side.

📥 Download the Checklist (PDF)


Want More Guidance?

Our complete Dental Safety System covers verified clinic questions, treatment timelines, what's excluded from quotes, and aftercare planning.

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How to Use This Checklist

Contact each clinic you're considering and work through these questions. Record their answers. A trustworthy clinic will answer every question clearly and willingly — without pressure or evasion.

If a clinic refuses to answer, becomes defensive, or gives vague non-answers — take that as a signal to look elsewhere.

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