The British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (BACD) is renowned as a worldleading authority within the dental profession. The President of the BACD, Dr Rahul Doshi, shares his insights on the recent advances in cosmetic and implant dentistry.

With the increased demand for cosmetic dentistry, practitioners are being continuously challenged to develop more effective solutions that meet the expectations of today’s patients. Cosmetic dentistry no longer focuses simply on producing a bright, white smile, but delivering highly natural outcomes, which ultimately involves looking at the whole mouth to achieve stable dental function and superior aesthetics. Over the last few years, treatment processes have improved with more innovative tools at a dentist’s disposal, enhancing the overall patient experience. There are some key areas that have been totally transformed in order to refine the standard of dental care now available.

Treatment planning

Technology has enabled more efficient planning of dental treatment. Dentists can now use the latest software to design highly accurate restorations (e.g. dental crowns) in a predictable way. Digital systems and virtual reality technology can be used to scan a patient’s mouth and create a simulation of what a patient’s smile could look like after the procedure, before treatment even begins.

With digital scanning and 3D printing technology now at the forefront of many professions – including dentistry – practitioners can produce 3D models to show patients what results could be achieved through treatment. Consequently, people are not only able to better understand their oral health, but are also becoming more engaged with the treatment process, thus fostering more positive patient practitioner relationships.

Intuitive computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) systems support the delivery of various solutions. These can be designed and made in practice, meaning patients no longer have to wait weeks at a time to obtain a crown, veneers, implants, or clear aligner type braces. Thus, achieving “a smile in a day” has become a reality, but for patients to truly benefit from beautiful, long-lasting restorations, it is important that they do their research and seek out the services of a highly skilled and experienced cosmetic dentist.

BACD Accredited dentists, for instance, have demonstrated their extensive skills and knowledge, as well as their ability to utilise some of the most advanced technologies and techniques in the UK. Patients who seek treatment from a BACD Accredited dentist can have  confidence that they are receiving the highest quality care from a professional who uses the latest dental equipment and materials.

Implants

Progressive technology has enabled dentists to improve the outcome of treatment for more complex oral health problems. As a result, dental implants have become popular for restoring missing teeth, particularly as they can immediately improve a patient’s appearance and ability to chew properly, thus restoring their overall quality of life. Traditionally, invasive two-stage surgery was often required to have an implant fitted and restored, but it is now possible to create a new smile within a day.

This will depend on the clinical situation and the suitability of each patient, but the improvement of implant components has enabled dentists to overcome many clinical challenges. For instance, implants may not have been previously viable for patients with thin or limited bone in the jaw, but the availability of implant products in various shapes and sizes has made treatment possible in some cases. Bone grafting procedures can be performed without involving the transplant of bone tissue from the patient’s body or a donor, but using man-made substances. This enables dentists to restore the quality and, more importantly, quantity of bone, so an implant can be placed to achieve predictable success.

With these advances in dental implant therapy, patients now have the flexibility to choose a fixed restoration that is far more aesthetic and comfortable, as opposed to conventional solutions such as removable dentures or bridges.

Cosmetic dentistry

Following the development of CAD/CAM technology and enhancements in the way dentists plan treatment, cosmetic dentistry has become important to all clinical situations. The BACD remains an advocate of high quality and ethical cosmetic dentistry, and it believes in following minimally invasive processes in order to achieve maximum function and aesthetics. This can  be done in a discreet way using the wide variety of techniques that are now available to cosmetic dentists.

With the latest materials, for example, dentists can employ an additive approach, meaning that the natural tooth tissue is preserved for certain techniques. Patients looking to improve the appearance of their teeth may request treatment for veneers, but what they might not realise is that cosmetic orthodontics could be an optimal treatment option. Modern composites could also provide a minimally invasive solution, which is not only more  comfortable for the patient, but also ensures long-lasting treatment outcomes. This is a result of the nanotechnology that is used to alter the teeth at a microscopic level, and create exceptional polishes and tooth colour to achieve superior aesthetics.

Cosmetic dentists today strive to offer high quality services that deliver functional, visually stunning, and natural-looking results. This emphasises the need to see cosmetic dentists who have developed a wide range of skills through continued professional learning, which adheres to the General Dental Council’s (the profession’s regulatory body) requirements in regards
to patient safety. The BACD is proud to offer a progressive pathway for dentists to expand on their essential knowledge. The organisation also prides itself on being the go-to source for patients looking for BACD Accredited cosmetic dentists, who are recognised for their exceptional skills and passion within the field.

As the popularity of cosmetic dental treatment continues to rise, it is important that you are aware of the options available to you. This will ensure that you can benefit from the best that modern dentistry has to offer.