Dr Shreejal Poudel examines the changing face of dentistry

Our profession has always been grounded by evidence-based practice and the trust of the community. In recent times, there has a been a shift in opinion regarding a range of different health-related matters, as well was peoples’ perspectives on oral health priorities. For those of us at an earlier stage of our careers, this can seem quite daunting. Whether it’s a change in patient demand or the skills required to meet the needs that are presented to us, there is an evolving landscape outside of daily clinical practice. With this comes a new series of ethical, financial, and regulatory considerations that need to be made. From the cost-of-living pressures that everyone is facing to the rise of cosmetic procedures, Dentistry may just be about to change to whole ‘other level. 

The Rise of Cosmetic Dentistry and the 'Celebrity Dentist'

The term ‘Celebrity Dentist’ is becoming more prevalent, especially in metropolitan areas. The emergence of high-profile practitioners performing complex and aesthetic cases is an abstract discussion we need to have more. It can influence how we practice and what care is being offered to patients. As a result of social media, fashion trends, and even Hollywood, treatments such as tooth whitening, clear aligners, and veneers are now performed on a regular basis. As a recent graduate, I can say it feels like unfamiliar territory. There are only so many videos and guest speakers that can inform us of the changes happening in our field. As students, we are taught the fundamentals of professional practice, a lot of the time being traditional thinking. There is no doubt that cosmetic trends have a psychosocial benefit for the patients; however, better planning and justification needs to be made for the delivery of services other than for physical or functional improvement. Are we starting to over-treat conditions that are perceived on healthy dentition? How far are we willing to go to maintain patients’ best interest and ethical practice?

Balancing Patient Expectations with Ethical Practice

Similarly, the way healthcare is being advertised has also been investigated recently by governing bodies and representatives. In Australia, we must ensure that promotional material is not misleading and avoids using testimonials that can set unrealistic expectations. This has seen a shift in commercial marketing in which a lot of Dentists and practices have made necessary alterations to the information patients are seeing. Although it can feel restrictive, online identities have also carried on these changes since that space carries a more significant risk. Breaching these guidelines can be quite costly to the individuals and their reputations so it is essential to keep up-to-date. At the end of the day, we are in quite a lucky niche where there is business being done. Ultimately, we are here to provide a professional service to our patients in an accurate and transparent matter. The goal is to always see or help more people and be remunerated appropriately. Nevertheless, we should also be grateful for the opportunities we have in the current state of the world. 

More and more patients are seeking services abroad due to some of the issues noted above. Dentists and students in Australia need to be aware of an increased presentation with complications or incomplete work. It is difficult to continue disrupted care, yet alone manage a disgruntled patient.

New Technologies and the Future of Clinical Practice

As we reflect on these key matters, it is important to note the newer technologies and advances that are being made to provide more effective and efficient treatment. There is a lot to learn for our new graduates, such as engaging artificial intelligence into an informed care model. So long as we don’t forget the basics of maintaining a good clinician-patient relationship and serving a patient-centred plan, we will be okay.

Further Resources

To gain further insights into some of the topics covered in this article, visit Dental Protection or listen to The Dental Protection Australia Podcast online. Remember, we have a range of different resources on our Young Practitioner Survival Guide hub

if you need further support and recommend reviewing the below Ahpra resource on making cosmetic procedures safer: 

https://www.ahpra.gov.au/Resources/Cosmetic-surgery-hub.aspx