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The rise of aesthetic dentistry: A modern necessity in contemporary practice

BDJ In Practice volume 38, pages 14–15 (2025)Cite this article

Having recently completed my Dental Foundation Training year and commencing my first position as an associate, I have found myself reflecting on the evolving landscape of dentistry, particularly the remarkable rise in demand for aesthetic treatment - a trend I've already begun to experience first-hand, despite being at the outset of my career. The growing interest in aesthetic dentistry is undeniable, with patients increasingly seeking more than just oral health. Rather they desire smiles that enhance their confidence and self-esteem. This trend has reshaped the role of the modern dentist, particularly for those of us like myself who stand at starting line of our careers and are navigating the balance between aesthetics and functionality while managing patient expectations.

This shift in patient expectations has significant implications for contemporary dental practice. It is no longer enough to simply treat dental disease; there is now a strong demand for treatments that enhance the visual appeal of a smile. For new dentists like myself, this represents both an exciting opportunity and a considerable challenge. In my personal experience thus far, patients often come with very specific expectations, influenced by pictures they've seen online or smiles they admire. As young dentists it is therefore paramount that we manage these expectations realistically and don't bite off more than we can chew, by firstly assessing patient expectations prior to the commencement of treatment.

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References

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  1. London, United Kingdom

    Triman Ahluwalia

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  1. Triman Ahluwalia
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Correspondence to Triman Ahluwalia.

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Ahluwalia, T. The rise of aesthetic dentistry: A modern necessity in contemporary practice. BDJ In Pract 38, 14–15 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41404-024-2967-4

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