Founder of Bespoke Smile talks trends and technology in cosmetic dentistry
In conversation with Dr Sam Jethwa, BDS (Lon) MFDS RCS (Edin) PgDip ClinEd (UK), founder of Bespoke Smile Advanced Dentistry and President of The British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.
“Over the years at Bespoke Smile, I’ve noticed several trends and changes that are transforming cosmetic dentistry. While this includes digital tools and dental materials, the patient experience is just as important. Patients nowadays want flexibility and personalisation, so that they know their treatment is exactly right for them,” explains Dr Jethwa.
Here is a conversation about some of the biggest trends in cosmetic dentistry and how practices are adapting and evolving to give their patients the best care possible.
1. 3D imaging
“A big change I’ve noticed in the cosmetic dentistry industry is the increasing use of digital technology, allowing for more precise and personalised treatment. Advanced 3D imaging technology provides excellent tools for clinicians to create an accurate preview of a patient’s smile.
At Bespoke Smile, we use a technology called ClinCheck to produce a digital model of your smile when creating custom-made aligners, like Invisalign. The chance to see the final result before treatment has even started is not only a great confidence boost, but also allows patients to feel like they’re a part of the entire process. Using 3D imaging to enhance the patient experience is a part of what I describe as emotional dentistry, where one of the main focuses is a positive emotional outcome.”
Additionally, 3D imaging is highly detailed and accurate, allowing for a more precise and personalised treatment plan for the patient. There’s no arguing that this type of technology is changing the cosmetic dentistry industry.
2. Minimally invasive treatments with ultra-thin veneers
“From my experience at Bespoke Smile, there seems to be a rise in preference for treatments that maintain a natural look. For example, our practice uses ultra-thin veneers, which are a minimally invasive treatment requiring little to no drilling, while also protecting the teeth underneath. The results are not only natural, but long-lasting. In fact, with the correct care, ultra-thin veneers can last up to 20+ years. When it comes to oral health, minimally invasive procedures like these also minimise tooth structure damage and protect enamel.
In my opinion, this means that patients are beginning to opt for subtle refinement instead of total replacement of their natural teeth. And if this is the case, it is important for dental practices to stay ahead of the curve and offer treatments like ultra-thin veneers to ensure patient satisfaction.”
3. The quality of dental materials
“Nowadays, cosmetic dentistry is about much more than just aesthetics. Materials that are durable, yet comfortable, are equally as important. Advancements in the cosmetic dentistry industry have allowed for modern dental materials that are effective and long-lasting, which provide patients with the best options possible. For example, when creating dental veneers for patients, we use materials like hand-designed porcelain or a very thin resin.
Porcelain is one of the most effective materials to use when building veneers, since it is stain-resistant, allowing patients to feel their best with their dream smile. Composite veneers, which are designed from a thin resin, are another type of veneer that we offer to our patients. These are a great budget-friendly alternative to porcelain and have a much quicker fitting process – they can sometimes even be fitted on the same day.
I believe that the advancement of modern dental materials allows dental practices to deliver results that are durable and long-lasting, while still giving their patients a beautiful smile.”
4. The flexibility of remote consultations
“The use of virtual consultations has sky-rocketed since COVID-19, but it seems that they’re here to stay, since patients love the convenience and flexibility that comes with this approach. Having any initial and follow-up consultations from the comfort of home is particularly helpful for patients living in rural areas or overseas, looking to minimise travel time.
From my experience, virtual consultations provide patients with more flexibility while still giving adequate information and support so that they feel prepared for their in-person appointment. The remote approach gives the patient the best of both worlds. Flexibility and comfort, combined with the highest level of care.”
5. Personalisation treatments
“Personalised care is a trend that is particularly relevant to cosmetic dentistry. Patients want to be more involved and receive a treatment that has been customised to suit their exact needs. This is why at Bespoke Smile, we offer our patients a Smile Makeover, which is a personalised plan designed to suit each person’s unique features and any specific concerns.
With personalised treatments like our Smile Makeover, the patient is offered a combination of multiple treatments for the most effective results, rather than just a single one. After all, each patient has a different goal in mind. Personalised care allows the patient’s final smile to perfectly reflect their facial features and individuality.”
Conclusion
“Cosmetic dentistry is an ever-evolving industry. From precise 3D imaging, to modern materials and patient personalisation, it’s important for each practice to adapt and evolve in this competitive market. I believe that this is key to delivering exceptional results, which is why Bespoke Smile is embracing these changes and trends, so that each patient can feel confident and satisfied with their final look.”
Bio:
Dr Sam Jethwa BDS (Lon) MFDS RCS (Edin) PgDip ClinEd (UK) is the founder of Bespoke Smile and known internationally as a leading innovator and smile designer in cosmetic dentistry. He is President of The British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (BACD), where he leads the board and represents UK cosmetic dentistry in the media. A qualified clinical teacher with a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Education, Dr Jethwa lectures globally on smile design, occlusion, and minimally invasive veneer techniques, sharing advanced methods through his bespoke academy and clinics in London. His passion is delivering confident, natural-looking smiles combined with comprehensive patient care and functional success.
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