Is social media popularising unrealistic smile ideals?

With the focus of this year's Dental Health Week centred on the oral health of 18-to-25-year-olds including an exploration of how their ideas of good dental health are being influenced by online information of varying quality, it's a good time to take a look at how algorithms are shaping peoples' oral health literacy.

In an article in Who Weekly which examines how "big white veneers or composite bonding" have become a "status symbol" and been adopted as the "new norm", Dr Andrew Gikas, ADA Board director and clinic director of the University of Melbourne Dental Clinic observes that "More patients are asking if aspects of their smile can be improved, whether through whitening, orthodontics or other cosmetic procedures".

Arriving with pre-determined ideas of what their cosmetic dental options are, he says they "don't always rely on the best, evidence-based, information", cautioning that when people are considering veneers or composite bonding that they should choose a dentist who will take the time to explain the benefits of treatment, as well as the limitations, risks and alternatives. 

"If a dentist advises against a particular cosmetic procedure, it is worth listening carefully to their reason," he explains.