LETTERS: The beauty of our smile diminishes as we age. Our teeth become discoloured or are lost.
Individuals with oral imperfections such as misaligned teeth also experience a 'weakness' in their smile, impacting confidence and overall psychological well-being.
They may benefit from cosmetic dentistry, which can restore confidence and potentially transform their lives.
The individuals feel younger, gaining clear advantages in both personal and professional spheres.
This explains the increasing demand for cosmetic dental procedures.
Dentists consider both the appearance and the patient's well-being in many restoration procedures, such as fillings and bridges. However, cosmetic dentistry focuses on enhancing the smile.
The most commonly requested cosmetic procedures are teeth whitening and veneers.
One concern associated with the former is tooth sensitivity. Many individuals who undergo the treatment experience increased sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
The bleaching agents used to whiten teeth can temporarily compromise the protective enamel, leading to heightened sensitivity. It can be uncomfortable and may deter individuals from pursuing further whitening sessions.
It's crucial to recognise that teeth whitening is not a permanent solution. Individuals may require periodic touch-ups to maintain the desired level of brightness. The overall cost will thus be high.
Dental veneers are custom-made shells of resin or porcelain that cover the enamel. The demand for this procedure continues to rise.
The prospect of having a flawless smile in a relatively short time has made veneers an appealing choice.
One drawback is the irreversible nature of the tooth preparation. To accommodate the thin shell, a small portion of the enamel must be removed. It's crucial that patients carefully consider this aspect and consult with their dentist to ensure they are comfortable with the permanent alteration.
Dental veneers are durable and stain-resistant, but they are not immune to wear and tear. Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential to ensure their longevity.
While we all desire a beautiful smile, we certainly do not want to compromise overall oral health. Therefore, we need to strike a balance between necessity and vanity.
Dr Noor Azlin Yahya
Department of Restorative Dentistry, Universiti Malaya
Dr Mohammad Tariqur Rahman
Department of Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Malaya
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times
