In 2024, the global orthodontic industry was valued at $21.2 billion with cosmetic dentistry expected to reach $89 billion by 2030. Dental care has transformed from a health necessity to a status-driven investment, with high-net-worth individuals seeking out their most discerning experts to optimize their smile.
“Orthodontics is right at the heart of smile design and cosmetic dentistry,” explains Dr Dipen Patel, specialist orthodontist at Ten Dental+Facial, an award-winning clinic with branches across South London. I visited their branch in Clapham for a session with one of their hygienists who gave me a cleaning routine and spoke to me about some of the concerns I had with the bite and staining of my teeth due to coffee and wine.
Invisalign is a product I was really curious about and I was happy to hear that the team at Ten Dental+Facial are treatment experts and are able to design custom treatment plans for all their patients. “Modern aligner systems like Invisalign are so discreet that patients feel comfortable and confident wearing them. Straightening teeth and improving bites improves long-term function, chewing and oral health. In many cases, orthodontics enhances cosmetics so effectively that patients can avoid much more invasive procedures like porcelain veneers.”
“I first became aware of Ten Dental+Facial during my orthodontic training because they had won many awards, were highly visible and had a great reputation,” says Dr. Patel. “When the opportunity came to join the team a few years later, I was delighted. I was impressed by the professionalism of the team and the high level of skill and dedication of the clinicians, as well as their patient-centred approach.”
For the LLM, I talk to Dr Patel about how the field of orthodontics has evolved in recent years and what at-home tool he thinks is worth the hype.
What was the first thing that drew you to a career in dentistry and eventually finding your calling as an orthodontist?
I had orthodontic treatment as a teenager and it made a lasting impression on me. I really enjoyed going to the dates because the group was very happy and friendly. The treatment helped me transform my smile and my confidence and so I wanted to help others experience the same.
The world of orthodontics has changed drastically over the past two decades, especially with the introduction of Invisalign. Could you tell me more about what a patient’s journey with braces would be like now compared to if they had them when they were younger?
The journey is much more comfortable with the advent of Invisalign and digital dentistry. First, we use digital scanners instead of messy putty impressions to take initial molds of your teeth. For some patients, traditional braces may still be the best option, however for many patients, discreet systems like Invisalign work very well. These are better suited to lifestyle, comfort and reduce the frequency of in-person visits. It gives patients the option to improve their smile without feeling self-conscious about visible braces.
Are there new technologies or treatments that are changing the way you work?
Digital scanning and 3D printing have completely changed games in recent years. They have made getting casts a more pleasant experience for patients. Digital scanning is a more accurate and efficient procedure and is great because we can now make predictably well-positioned retainers faster so that the teeth don’t have time to move after the nails are removed.
High net worth individuals and celebrities have turned to cosmetic dental work to help achieve a refined and sophisticated appearance. Why do you think this trend has really taken off?
Research has shown that your smile can affect how you are perceived – this includes attractiveness, social status and overall health. With the constant presence of social media, and more recently with AI-enhanced images, people are more aware of the impact of a beautiful smile and there is now an expectation that it should look great in photos too.
What are some common mistakes you’ve seen people make when it comes to dental hygiene?
I always recommend that patients use TePe floss or brushes daily. This can often be forgotten in our busy schedules! Regular dental visits are very important, especially during braces or Invisalign treatment, as air flow polishing by a hygienist is great for removing stubborn stains.
Are there any premium brands or home tools that you think are worth the hype?
I have no financial interest in the product, but it really impressed me Zima dental pods. Patients often struggle to keep their fittings clean and free of chalk build-up, and the retainers of patients who use the pods consistently look fresh and new, even months later!
Have you noticed changes in customer preferences over the years in terms of the type of smile they want to achieve?
Yes, some patients request a very flat and wide smile instead of a more natural, curved smile. I often hear requests for a ‘Margot Robbie’ smile. My approach is to design a smile in a way that matches and complements a patient’s facial features. Every smile is unique and customized to the individual.
As an avid traveler, where will you go on your next vacation?
I love traveling and exploring new places and cultures! I recently returned from South America and attended the World Orthodontic Congress in Rio, Brazil. I’m off to Dubai for some winter sun and I also have a foodie holiday planned next summer in San Sebastian.
Factbox
Ten Dentistry
Address: Multiple locations
Website: tendental.com
Instagram: @tendentalfacial
Images courtesy of Ten Dental
