Dental professionals are being warned by the Dental Defence Union (DDU) that the application of tooth jewellery poses an ethical dilemma.
The DDU has published a fictional dilemma, based on real cases notified by members, in which a dentist was asked by a patient for his teeth to be made to resemble fangs. The patient was inspired by an influencer in the US who had had his canine teeth contoured and sharpened.
When the dentist explained that they didn’t think this treatment would be in the patient’s best interest, the patient produced some tooth jewellery and asked the dentist to apply these to his canine teeth.
Deputy head of the DDU Leo Briggs explained:
"Although this was an unusual request, DDU members regularly call our advice line saying they feel under pressure to carry out treatment a patient has seen on a social media platform or online.
"The first principle of the GDC's Standards is to 'put patients' interests first'. This encompasses listening to patients and being sensitive to their needs, but also acting in their best interests. This doesn’t mean agreeing to any patient request.
"Dental professionals must be convinced the proposed treatment is reasonable, in line with current accepted practice and in the patient's best interest. You should decline to provide treatment if you don't judge it to be clinically appropriate - however persuasive the patient may be."
Tooth jewellery is growing in popularity and the GDC considers its application as the practice of dentistry. However, the charity Safe Smiles warns that "having a jewel stuck onto the surface of your tooth can cause serious damage." This is because the tooth underneath the item is impossible to clean, causing plaque and bacteria to build-up, which can lead to tooth decay.
The charity also warns against patients trying to remove the jewellery themselves if they find it uncomfortable. Doing so can cause permanent damage and side effects.
Read the full dilemma here.
This page was correct at publication on 31/10/2024. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.