One-Third of Young People Under 35 Seek Cosmetic Dental Treatments

UK: A recent study indicates that a considerable number of young adults under the age of 35 have undergone cosmetic dental procedures or treatments in the past year. 

According to the research, one-third of this age group, amounting to 33%, invested in cosmetic dental enhancements, with an average expenditure of £3,677. Notably, 10% of those aged 25 to 34 have spent £25,000 or more on cosmetic dental improvements.

Emphasis on Cosmetic ‘Appearance’ of Teeth

The survey highlights that the money spent by these individuals is solely dedicated to improving the cosmetic “appearance” of their teeth. 

In contrast, the average spending on general dental treatments, routine check-ups, and products to maintain dental health amounted to just £417 among the same age demographic.

Preferences in Cosmetic Dental Treatments

Among those who opted for cosmetic dental procedures, the study reveals that 20% had the treatments carried out by dental professionals, while 17% chose at-home solutions like whitening kits or teeth aligners. 

Additionally, 4% of respondents availed both professional and at-home treatments to enhance the appearance of their teeth.

Dentists Administering Aesthetic Injections

Interestingly, the research also highlights the involvement of dentists in administering aesthetic injections like Botox. 

Approximately 24% of cosmetic practitioners who perform such injections are dentists, while 8% are dental nurses. 

The study, led by researchers from University College London, evaluated over 3,000 websites and identified 1,224 independent clinics and 3,667 practitioners providing cosmetic injections.

The UK’s Growing Injectables Market

The UK’s injectables market, encompassing treatments like Botox, is projected to reach a substantial value of £11.7 billion by 2026, as reported in the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery. 

This growth raises concerns about the challenges in regulating the industry effectively.

Calls for Enhanced Regulation

Dr David Zargaran, a plastic surgeon and author of the research study, emphasizes the importance of addressing unregulated challenges in the cosmetic injectables market. 

‘There are well-documented – yet to date, unaddressed – challenges in the UK cosmetic injectables market,” he says.

‘Without knowledge of the professional backgrounds of practitioners, we cannot adequately regulate the industry. Our research highlights that the majority of practitioners are not doctors. [They] include other healthcare professionals, as well as non-healthcare professionals such as beauticians.’

The increasing demand for cosmetic dental treatments among young adults underscores the significance of cosmetic dentistry in modern dental care. 

As the industry continues to evolve, ensuring proper regulation and transparency in the delivery of these treatments remains a vital aspect of safeguarding patients’ health and well-being.