Our Story

Hello. My name is Alex Cocic-Hill and I am the founder of YourFavouriteDentist.co.uk. Thank you for visiting our website.

This is the story of my personal experience which led to me creating this website and service.

 

Your teeth, how they look and how you feel about them contribute to your mood, your confidence and general state of mind. Teeth can bring happiness or cause unhappiness, bring joy or tears. They play an under-rated role in our well-being.

We take our teeth for granted.

When teeth are good, we don't even notice them or the job they do but when things go wrong, teeth require urgent attention. You feel sick; you can't work, rest or play without discomfort or pain. Sometimes, you are unable to eat your favourite food.

A tooth or dental problem that causes on-going pain may be a symptom of a more serious problem affecting bones and, possibly, even your state of mind. Poor oral hygiene can lead to a variety of dental and medical problems, such as gum disease, infection, heart disease, strokes, oral cancer and more.

None of us should take our teeth for granted and neglect our health!

So what do you do when you are faced with a dental dilemma? You have a choice. You can either:

1. Have a go at DIY dentistry, which could involve pulling your own tooth out with a pair of pliers; or
2. Face having to pay a local dentist to do the work, which could cost you thousands of pounds

Because of the financial barriers in finding a dentist, regular dental check-ups become something of a rarity for many people, hence increasing further health risks and dental complications.

How many times have you delayed your routine visits to a dentist?

Well, I, like many people, delayed routine visits to the dentist. After a while, I found I had two huge gaps in my gums. My oral hygiene was fine but I was missing my regular check-ups. Also, I am aware that genes played a significant role. I ended up in need of two bridges and nine crowns!

I was in constant pain, especially when I ate. I was unable to chew properly (particularly hot and cold food) and my gums were always tender.

A soft toothbrush and toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth did a job (sort of) but I knew, somehow, that the bigger picture was altogether more serious and was going to get a whole lot more expensive.

My local dentist in north London quoted me £5,500 for two bridges, including nine porcelain crowns. (I was quoted a similar price at various other practices). Ludicrous, I thought, and questioned the purpose and management of the NHS as well. Join the queue - sounds familiar?

At first, I panicked. Then a friend of a friend referred me to a dentist in Belgrade. I grew up there but hadn't visited a Belgrade dentist since 1985. Naturally, I was reluctant and uncertain at first.

Ok, I had to arrange to take time off work and organise my trip but ask yourself: would you take action if any other part of your body was falling apart? Of course you would! And I am no different. I repeat, we shouldn't take our teeth for granted, and that's it!

I flew to Belgrade with BA for £160 (return fare) and stayed for ten days.

I saved around £4,000 (including flights)! I feel good, confident again and my smile makes me happy.

My treatment with Smile Dent - two bridges with nine porcelain crowns including the removal of plaque and a polish - came to about £1,300, with the provision of a full warranty.

So why is it so much cheaper in Belgrade?

Typically, there is more than one answer.

Firstly, there is the notion of 'Rip-off Britain'. This is not a new idea, but it is certainly very real. Many goods and services really do cost a lot more in the UK compared to continental Europe (particularly eastern and southern Europe). Just look around and compare prices of essential everyday commodities; travel, food, petrol, etc.

Also, there is the simple fact that materials, equipment and supplies are bought by dentists across Europe from identical or similar suppliers but prices can vary wildly according to territory and differing levels of demand.

Thirdly, while Serbia, of which Belgrade is the capital city, is not a member of the European Union, its economy is booming while remaining one of the cheapest countries in Europe. Also, it is only a couple of hours' flying time from the UK.

Private dental care in Belgrade is safe, affordable - particularly for UK citizens - totally professional and the equal of anywhere in the world.

Please get in touch if you wish to discuss your current situation or if you require any further information.

Be wise, don't delay your action. Think of your health, think of the future.

Best Wishes,

Alex