Managing expectations

Dentists are urged to consider the clinical risks associated with cosmetic dentistry, says UK-wide dental defence organisation MDDUS.

However, according to MDDUS dental adviser Doug Hamilton, while provision of cosmetic treatment can be a hugely satisfying aspect of dentistry, managing the expectations of patients, who may be searching for the perfect smile, can present unique challenges.

“Cosmetic procedures are such a big part of dentistry nowadays, it is inevitable practitioners will at some point encounter patients who wish to electively alter their smile,” says Hamilton.

“This type of treatment, if properly planned and executed, will undoubtedly bring much happiness to the patient. However, it does carry with it practical difficulties which are perhaps not so commonly encountered in therapeutic interventions.

“Even when essential treatment goes wrong, complaints often follow. However, if the patient’s perception is that the work ‘isn’t what I expected’ or ‘wasn’t necessary’, the complaint tends to be that bit stronger.”