The prospect of getting an injection was previously enough to put a patient off visiting the dentist. However, a lot of dentists in Scotland are now finding that there is a growing demand for cosmetic procedures and getting Botox or fillers is now becoming a reason to visit your dentist.
Why?
Some people say that this increasing demand for cosmetic treatments such as Botox and fillers is largely due to these procedures becoming more socially acceptable, as a growing number of people seek out non-surgical, anti-aging procedures and the previous stigma surrounding them disappears. Dentists already use Botox to treat certain clinical issues (such as teeth grinding and temporomandibular joints), so its use for aesthetic treatments would seem a logical “add on” to dentistry.
Dentists are increasingly looking for different ways to diversify their practice, as changes within NHS dentistry in Scotland bring a degree of uncertainty as to the future of the “traditional” NHS dental practice model and a shift towards private treatments. The next generation of dentists in particular are showing a keen interest in the delivery of facial aesthetics, as they seek out a greater work/life balance and a move away from the stress that can come with the traditional five days per week type of NHS dental practice.
Due to their intensive studying at dental school, dentists have a really good understanding of facial anatomy and so are well placed to administer Botox or fillers. Likewise, if you have been treated by the same dentist for years, you are likely to have a relationship of trust with them and so getting Botox or fillers from that person is perhaps a natural progression.
Insurance
Even the very best of clinicians are likely to face a claim at some point in their professional careers and dentists already have comprehensive professional indemnity insurance in place that meets GDC requirements. The good news is that some of these policies might already cover a dentist for the administration of facial aesthetics, but dentists looking to offer these services should always speak to their existing dental indemnifier before starting, to ensure that the proper insurance coverage is in place.
Regulation
Somewhat concerningly, non-surgical cosmetic procedures that pierce or penetrate the skin, such as dermal fillers (lip or face fillers) remain largely unregulated, so anyone can carry out these procedures. Various independent clinics are regulated by Healthcare Improvement Scotland (HIS), but only those run by a medical or dental practitioner, registered nurse, registered midwife or dental care professional (clinical dental physician, dental hygienist, dental nurse, dental technician, dental therapist or orthodontic therapist) actually need to register with HIS. As such, there are a large number of unregulated practitioners out there – something the Scottish Government is considering launching a consultation on later this year, given the increase in people making personal injury claims as a result of botched beauty treatments in Scotland.