Cosmetic procedures and interventions are a growing industry in the UK, forecast to rise over 50% from 2010 to 2015, when it’s expected to reach £3.6 billion. And cosmetic dentistry is no different, according to a report published on Private Healthcare UK, the numbers of people seeking out and undergoing cosmetic dentistry procedures is on the increase.
Cosmetic dentistry includes a wide range of specific dental procedures and there are a number of different treatments which fall beneath the cosmetic dentistry umbrella, with tooth whitening, veneers and dental implants being the most common.
However as the number of patients seeking out cosmetic dentistry treatments is on the increase, so are the numbers of complaints and dental negligence claims. Perhaps, as per our last article, this has something to do with the fact that when we are expected to pay for something, we expect a higher level of service.
But it’s not just about the level of service; it’s the standard of treatment and being made aware of all the possible options before having any sort of procedure that’s also important. Cosmetic procedures such as crowns, bridges, veneers and implants all have positive and negative points and these should be discussed with the patient before any treatment is carried out. It’s also vital that the dentist makes sure the treatment is suitable for that particular patient. There is no point in fitting a bridge, for example, if the adjoining teeth aren’t suitable.
Things to look out for if you’re thinking of having a cosmetic dentistry procedure:
- Choose a dentist based on their qualifications, not their website or premises.
- Remember 'Free” consultations are all about selling
- Look for good, solid MSc qualifications from reputable dental hospitals and universities
- The dentist should suggest as conservative an approach as possible. Bleaching and orthodontic work, to re-position teeth, are far preferable to veneers and caps, which alter the tooth's structure. However they don’t always make the dentist as much money, make sure you’re getting the right treatment for you not for their pockets!
- Always ask for the pros and cons of different treatments and use your instinct and common sense.
Cosmetic Dentistry Negligence Incidents include accidents during bleaching, porcelain veneers, crown and bridgework and orthodontic work. In addition some dentists use dermal fillers, Botox or hyaluronic acid, which can pose risks (see dermal fillers blog)
We Can Help
If you feel you have suffered as the result of dental negligence, or are unsure and would like to talk your situation through, then get in contact. Our friendly specialist advisors can talk to you about your situation and see if you have a valid claim. There is no charge for this service and you are under no obligation to claim with us.
If You Have a Genuine Claim, Contact a Genuine Company
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Call us now on 0800 756 7774 and talk to us to find out if you have a claim - or fill in our Quick Claim form (on the right of this page).
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