In recent years, cosmetic dental treatments have surged in popularity. From teeth whitening treatments to veneers, these procedures are no longer the reserve of celebrities or the uber-rich, instead becoming much more accessible to the general public.
This rise in demand reflects a broader cultural shift towards self-care and aesthetic enhancement. However, the growing popularity of cosmetic dental treatment also shows there is a greater need for awareness about the risks and side effects of cosmetic dentistry – as well as the importance of choosing a qualified dental professional. For dental negligence solicitors, this cosmetic trend has raised the number of claims we’ve had to deal with, including cases of botched cosmetic procedures or inadequate care from cosmetic dentists.
In this blog, we’ll explore the latest trends and statistics in the cosmetic dentistry world. We’ll also examine the factors driving its growth, as well as the legal implications that negligent cosmetic dental treatments can have for patients and practitioners alike.
If you’ve experienced dental negligence at the hands of a cosmetic dentist, you may be eligible to start a dental claim – please get in touch with our expert team at 0800 152 2032.
The Growing Popularity of Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry has grown rapidly over the past couple of decades, becoming a cornerstone of the modern dental industry. More and more people are seeking smile makeovers for both professional and personal reasons. Market Data Forecast predicts an increase of 12.88% for the global cosmetic dentistry market between 2025 and 2033.
Here, we’ll take a look at some of the main reasons why cosmetic dental treatments have grown so much in popularity in recent years…
A Shift in Priorities
The British cosmetic dentistry industry is growing massively – in 2023, Dentistry UK reported that one third of British adults had a cosmetic dental treatment carried out in the previous 12 months. This surge isn’t just limited to the UK though, with similar results appearing across Europe and the USA.
These figures seem to be driven by a combination of factors:
- Recent advancements in dental technology
- The increased affordability of cosmetic dental treatments
- The rising influence of social media platforms
These three factors have all had an important part to play in the rise of cosmetic dentistry, but social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok seem to have had the biggest impact. These apps have created a unique culture where having the perfect smile is seen as a key component of both attractiveness and success.
This has led to a rise in demand for procedures involving teeth whitening, veneers and specific orthodontic treatments like Invisalign (invisible braces).
The Rise of Modern Dental Technology
Recent technological advancements have made cosmetic dental treatments much more effective and less invasive than they used to be. This technology also means that these procedures often have lower costs, which has made them more accessible to the general public.
For example, tools like digital smile design software have been invented, which enable dentists to create a virtual model of a patient’s smile before treatment is carried out. Cognitive Market Research recently reported that the digital smile design software market is currently valued at $151.1 million globally, set to rise to $281.8 million in 2033.
Digital smile design technology helps dentists to visualise the results of a procedure before committing to it, making it much more likely to be successful when performed. Information found on ResearchGate suggests that the adoption rate for this digital smile design tech is around 30%, which is only set to rise further in the future. Laser dentistry is another rapidly advancing field within cosmetic dentistry, offering enhanced precision and significantly shorter recovery times for patients.
These cutting-edge technological innovations have many uses, enhancing patient satisfaction and expanding the range of available treatments for each person. This shows that cosmetic dentistry is no longer just about aesthetics; instead, it can also address key functional issues (such as misaligned bites or damaged teeth) and improve your overall oral health.
The Role of Social Media
As previously stated, social media has played a pivotal role in popularising cosmetic dental treatments, with platforms like Instagram and TikTok showcasing a range of before-and-after transformations. Both influencers and celebrities can share their experiences of cosmetic procedures online, which then inspires their followers to pursue similar treatments.
However, this trend has also led to unrealistic expectations for many people, as some patients expect instant results, which aren’t always possible. Dentists have a responsibility to manage these expectations appropriately and must educate their patients about the limitations and risks of cosmetic procedures as part of the informed consent process. If your dentist fails to do this, it may constitute dental negligence.
Key Trends in the World of Cosmetic Dentistry
As we’ve previously seen, the cosmetic dentistry industry is rapidly evolving, using new technologies and techniques to transform how dentists perform these procedures.
Let’s look at some of the key trends shaping the cosmetic dentistry field at the moment…
1. Teeth Whitening is Now a Staple Procedure
Teeth whitening has become one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments in the world, with millions of people opting for professional teeth whitening services each year. However, unlike traditional over-the-counter (OTC) teeth whitening products, professional whitening treatments offer faster and more dramatic results, which has made them a favourite among patients seeking a quick smile upgrade. Four in ten people under 35 have had their teeth whitened, showing how popular this form of dental work is.
The popularity of at-home whitening kits has also grown due to their convenience and affordability. Teeth whitening products can be effective, but they can also carry several risks (particularly if used incorrectly), such as tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. This is why you should always consult with your dentist before undergoing any tooth-whitening treatments.
2. Veneers: The Ultimate Smile Makeover
Dental veneers have become synonymous with celebrity smiles, as they offer a more permanent solution for stained, chipped or misaligned teeth. Usually manufactured from porcelain or composite resin, veneers are custom-designed shells that are made to fit over the front surface of your teeth, creating a flawless smile.
The demand for veneers has skyrocketed in recent years, with many patients opting for advanced smile makeovers that involve multiple veneers being fitted at once. According to GQ magazine, the global dental veneer market is currently worth an estimated £1.75 billion, which is set to double by the year 2031.
However, patients must consider that dental veneer procedures are irreversible and require the removal of a small amount of tooth enamel. Veneers can sometimes go wrong (which may entitle you to a dental negligence claim), so it’s crucial that you choose an experienced dentist to avoid complications from occurring.
3. Invisalign: A Clear Alternative to Braces
Invisalign has revolutionised orthodontic treatment, offering a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional adult braces. Invisalign is essentially a form of clear, removable teeth aligners that are virtually invisible. This factor makes them a popular choice for adults and teens who want to straighten their teeth without the hassle and embarrassment of fitting metal brackets and wires.
Invisalign’s convenience has contributed to its widespread adoption, with millions of patients worldwide opting for this treatment. However, like any orthodontic procedure, it requires careful planning and execution to achieve optimal results for the patient. Find out more about the process of fitting braces here.
4. Gum Contouring: Reshaping Your Smile
Gum contouring (also known as gum reshaping) is a cosmetic procedure that involves removing excess gum tissue to create a more balanced and symmetrical smile. Gum contouring is particularly popular among patients with what is known as a ‘gummy smile’ (where the gums are more prominent than the teeth), with over 200 clinics offering the service across the UK.
Laser technology has made the gum contouring process much quicker and less painful, also adding the benefit of minimal downtime. However, it’s essential to choose a skilled and experienced dentist to avoid uneven results from occurring, otherwise, you might have a dental negligence claim on your hands.
5. Dental Implants: A Permanent Solution for Missing Teeth
Dental implants have become something of a gold standard for replacing missing teeth, offering a durable and natural-looking alternative to dentures or dental bridges. The procedure involves surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which then serves as a foundation for a custom crown to be fitted.
While dental implant procedures are usually highly effective, they require a significant investment of time and money. The success of the procedure also largely depends on the skill of the dentist and the patient’s oral health, as things can go wrong if proper care isn’t taken.
UK-Based Trends in Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dental treatments are evolving rapidly, with more and more Brits seeking aesthetic procedures that can enhance their smiles. In this section, we’ll explore the latest trends shaping the cosmetic dentistry field in the UK, which may help you understand why the industry has taken off so much in recent years.
The Impact of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on most industries within the UK, including the cosmetic dentistry field. Many dental practices were forced to close or limit their services to emergency procedures during lockdowns, with some people refusing dental treatment due to the fear of catching the disease.
However, the pandemic also led to an increased demand for orthodontic and cosmetic treatment. The rise in demand is thought to be because many people spent more time on video calls, which meant they became more self-conscious about their appearance and more specifically their smile.
The Growing Demand for Minimally Invasive Treatments
Another factor to consider in the rise of cosmetic dentistry is the growing preference for minimally invasive treatments that offer quick results with minimal downtime. Procedures like composite bonding and enameloplasty (also known as odontoplasty or tooth contouring) are becoming increasingly popular in the UK. This is because these forms of treatment allow patients to achieve noticeable aesthetic improvements, without the need for extensive and invasive dental work.
This ongoing trend reflects a broader shift towards a form of cosmetic dentistry that focuses on preserving the natural tooth structure while still achieving your aesthetic goals.
The Rise of Dental Negligence Cases
As the demand for cosmetic dental treatments grows, from our internal stats it seems so will the potential for dental negligence. Common issues reported to us include poorly executed procedures and treatments, failing to provide the right diagnosis, providing inadequate aftercare advice and failure to obtain informed consent. For example, if your veneer procedure goes wrong, it can lead to permanent damage to the tooth enamel, while improper whitening techniques can cause gum damage or severe sensitivity.
Dental negligence solicitors (like those working for the Dental Law Partnership) play a crucial role in helping patients claim compensation for substandard care. These cases often involve complex medical and legal considerations and may require expert testimony, thorough documentation and access to your dental records to find a suitable resolution.
Emerging Trends and Technologies
As we’ve previously seen, the future of cosmetic dentistry looks very promising, with a range of new technologies and treatments looming on the horizon. For example, 3D printing may revolutionise the creation of restorative dentistry measures, offering faster and more precise results for patients.
As reported by Dentistry.co.uk last year, 3D printing is growing massively in the dental world. An estimated 96% of dental labs with more than five employees now utilise 3D printers in their facilities, which is only set to grow further in the coming years.
AI (artificial intelligence) is also on the rise, often used to analyse oral health data and recommend personalised treatment plans for patients, as well as creating sensible treatment planning measures for dental surgery employees.
The Rise of Turkey Teeth
In recent years, another growing trend has emerged of British dental patients travelling abroad to countries like Turkey for cosmetic dental treatments (particularly veneers). This phenomenon has been driven by the fact that cosmetic dental treatments are often much cheaper when carried out abroad, earning the nickname ‘Turkey teeth’.
These countries often offer packages that include flights, accommodation, food and treatment, priced competitively to be significantly lower than procedural costs in the UK. Whilst this may seem like an attractive option to many people, dental tourism can be risky. You may also not be able to open a claim against a dentist in another country if something goes wrong, so we would still recommend seeing a dentist based in Britain instead.
The Risks of Overseas Treatment: Legal and Ethical Considerations
While the cost savings of travelling for cosmetic dental treatment can be appealing, there are significant risks associated with going abroad. One of the main concerns is the lack of regulation and oversight in some countries, which can lead to substandard dental care. If something does go wrong, you may also find that British dentists are unwilling to attempt to fix the issue, which can also have a negative impact on your oral health.
There have been several reports of British patients returning home from Turkey with botched veneers, dental infections or other complications. In some cases, patients have required extensive corrective treatment upon their return, which naturally negates any initial cost savings.
Patients who experience these sorts of complications after treatment abroad may also find it difficult to seek legal recourse against a dentist based in another country. The jurisdiction and regulatory standards in another nation will usually differ from those in the UK, which can make it difficult to follow the dental negligence claims process properly.
If you’ve encountered dental negligence at the hands of a dentist in England or Wales, we may be able to help you with your claim. For more information, please contact our dedicated team here or request a free callback at your convenience.