Mastering Cosmetic Dentistry

Mastering cosmetic dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is a vast and dynamic field. Though many clinicians focus their practise in the area, this in no way reduces the diversity of their work. In fact, to be exceptional cosmetic dentists, it is essential that individuals develop a broad range of related skills that enable them to deliver various clinical procedures to a high standard. To truly master the art of ethical cosmetic dentistry, clinicians must be confident and competent in an array of clinical areas, including restorative, surgical and aesthetic fields.

Putting patients first

The most important motivation behind all dentists’ work is to ensure safe, effective and ethical patient care. Expanding professional knowledge and skills in any area is crucial for this. Not only does it allow the clinician to utilise the latest evidence-based techniques for their patient’s treatment, but it also provides a wider pool of procedures from which to call upon in any given situation. The result is safer treatment with better outcomes that make it easier to meet or even exceed patient expectations.

With a more comprehensive knowledge of the different treatment options available, a dentist can also ensure their patient is better informed. This allows better managed patient expectations, more robust consent and greater patient rapport thanks to more open and complete communication of suitable treatment pathways. It promotes ethics and shared decision-making with patients, which in turn elevates their engagement in their oral health, encourages their compliance with professional recommendations and improves treatment outcomes.

Prioritising minimally invasive dentistry

When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, especially in more complex cases, dentists will often need to take a multidisciplinary approach. The combination of different techniques typically facilitates a less invasive treatment solution, which is better for the patient in a number of ways. For example, providing orthodontic treatment prior to restorative solutions often reduces the amount of preparation needed on the teeth for veneers. This affords a faster and less expensive solution for the patient, while also leaving the option for more complex treatment in the future as part of a truly progressive approach to patient care.

Career development and satisfaction

Professional training has been associated with increased individual wellbeing in a number of industries. There is also evidence to show that continued education improves job satisfaction for workers. This is logical given that new knowledge and skills will enable an individual to expand their role, take on different responsibilities, earn more and have a greater and more positive impact on patients. Specifically within healthcare settings, professional job satisfaction is associated with various further benefits, including increased quality of patient care.

A comprehensive education

To achieve all of these benefits and more, it is important that the modern cosmetic dentist identifies the most appropriate areas in which to focus their education. Though it may be tempting to concentrate on topics that you enjoy most, it is often more advantageous to instead train within the areas you are least confident in. This ensures you improve your skills across the board to become a well-rounded clinician.

Consider making two lists – one that encompasses all the dental procedures or clinical situations you do or treat most regularly and anther of those you do or treat least. Think about everything from orthodontics to whitening, different restorative solutions for anterior and posterior cases, smile design, occlusal management, soft tissue manipulation and implant therapy. The second list will likely indicate the topics for future training in order to increase your capabilities and confidence.

Training, mentorship and accreditation

There are many courses available in dentistry today to cover all these and more. It is, therefore, vital to choose carefully in order to invest in the right training for you. In particular, a high-quality course should offer adequate theoretical and hands-on tuition for the technique, material or technology being taught. Perhaps even more important is the follow-up support available either through the training or separately. Finding a good mentor is invaluable when learning new skills. They will supervise your cases and help you safely apply new concepts in practice, offering bespoke advice and guidance throughout. They can also help you design your career development and choose courses by sharing their experiences, mistakes and success, fast tracking your progression without any compromise.

For dentists looking to be at the very top of their game in cosmetic dentistry, BACD Accreditation should also be a goal. This programme recognises dentists for their extraordinary commitment to skill development and exceptional patient care within the field. It requires the submission of cases showing specific treatment procedures, which are assessed by some of the most talented and respected clinicians in the UK profession. As an Accredited BACD member, you will be able to demonstrate your advanced skills and abilities to both patients and referring colleagues, facilitating business growth.

Cosmetic dentistry is a varied and exciting field for clinicians. A broad range of skills is essential to becoming the best you can be.

For further enquiries about the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry visit www.bacd.com