Experienced dentists would agree that the less done to teeth for purely cosmetic reasons, the less damage and risk there is to sound tooth structure and tissue. Avoiding patient disappointment, or failure of expectation are a priority in the highly principled profession of dentistry.

The rebranding of dental health began almost a decade ago, when the term ‘oral care’ entered common usage. It was to encompass the expansion of dentistry from a sector dealing simply with healthcare, to one that understood that beauty and aesthetics are a large part of having a sense of wellbeing.

Where once there was quite a definitive boundary between health and attractiveness, its line has become so blurred it basically no longer exists. There’s an element of health devalued, if no beauty is reflected in its accomplishment. Although ‘health’ is more loosely defined than the loaded label ‘beauty’, they’re so intricately enmeshed, the current complication is whether the endeavour is for perfect health, or perfected beauty.

Gen Z goes beyond even caring that it doesn’t look real – the more plastic, the more fantastic. Non-surgical and surgical procedures are viewed as a means of self-expression. More than half of millennials have had cosmetic dental procedures or treatments, and in the UK alone, they spend more than three times the national average on dentistry.

That’s not necessarily a bad thing; until long-term health is relegated to the backseat. The most common example is dental veneers (usually a full set) adhered to strong, healthy teeth for no reason other than a distorted social media view of having a previously ‘inferior’ smile. ‘Turkey teeth’ are a dental horror of their own; but the expertise of veneers requires removing dental enamel.

With replacement necessary after an average of ten years, for a 25-30 year old, that’s a lot of shaving of that thin, irreplaceable layer that protects the vital tissue of dental pulp. No dental procedure is without risk. Should veneers fail because of decay developing underneath, or the lifelong personal maintenance responsibilities prove untenable, next comes crowns; or possibly even dental implants or dentures.

Essentially, we have Charles Darwin and Alfred Russel Wallace to thank for this linking of beauty to health. They jointly published the theory of evolution by natural selection in 1858, after debating the question of why male birds were often brightly coloured despite making them easy pickings for predators. They concluded that female birds chose the more brilliant ones because they were healthier.

It’s an idea that’s been accepted for more than 150 years, and it’s not true for all species. Obviously, humans are attracted to the attractive; but there’s no true correlation between the best looking and the most healthy – certainly Narcissus had issues.

Data from a study that began in the 1930s in Berkeley and Oakland, California had hundreds of residents agree to be photographed, and have their health assessed on an annual basis from the ages of 11 to 18.

Each had an additional health assessment when they were in their 30s; and another between the ages of 58 and 66.

In this study, volunteers rated them on how attractive they were from facial photographs of the subjects taken when they were 17, 17-and-a-half, and 18. Researchers knew from their records how healthy these people were as teenagers, and how healthy they would likely be later. This is how they determined whether the healthiest people were considered the most attractive.

It turned out, that they were not.

Those with the fewest, and least severe illnesses were no more attractive than those who were often sick. And those with minimal medical issues when they were older, were not more physically attractive than those plagued with ill health.

There was no relationship; and that was kind of surprising to the research team.

When another group of volunteers were asked to look at the photographs and guess how healthy the subjects were, it was assumed that the most attractive people were the healthiest.

People really do think that attractiveness indicates health – it’s just that unfortunately, they’re mistaken.

There’s no argument that people have the right to make any personal improvements they like. What’s useful to know in the realm of dentistry, is that cosmetic is different to aesthetic dentistry.

Generally, much depends on the severity of the issue to be resolved as to whether a cosmetic or aesthetic solution is the most appropriate.

Cosmetic dentistry involves the likes of teeth whitening, veneers, dental bonding, crowns, and gum contouring. Its focus is to achieve a more immediate and visible result. Undoubtedly, aesthetic appearance is enhanced; but it’s through cosmetic procedures.

Where aesthetic dentistry differs, is its emphasis on subtle, longer term, less invasive enhancement. It integrates patients’ oral health needs so it’s not only visually pleasing, but conserving healthy teeth is maximised with a more holistic approach to overall dental function. Procedures include tooth restoration, root canal therapy, implants, dentures and bridges or fillings that give teeth a natural look.

The outcome is to create the changes without drastically altering appearance; which is completely acceptable – if not desired – with cosmetic dental treatments.

Both types of specialist clinics are staffed with highly skilled professionals who can remedy and repair a range of dental issues. Those offering aesthetic dentistry services may have a broader range of non-invasive treatments.

Whatever treatment a patient seeks or needs, it starts with informed decision-making. Feel confident asking for clarification to properly and better understand all the available options, any risks and the realistic range of outcomes. One thing that aesthetic dentistry and cosmetic clinicians unquestionably have in common, is their appreciation for quality, candid and honest communication with their patients.

There’s undeniable beauty in that.

Disclaimer: The material posted is for informational purposes only and is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Results vary with each patient. Any dental procedure carries risks and benefits. If you have any specific questions about any dental and/or medical matter, you should consult your dentist, physician or other professional healthcare providers.

 

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