As we navigate the post-pandemic world, various industries, including cosmetic dentistry, have felt the impacts of COVID-19. Dr. Kelley Mingus, a renowned dentist based in Bend, Oregon, offers his insights on how the pandemic has affected trends in cosmetic dentistry.
Adapting to a New Normal
The first major impact of COVID-19 on cosmetic dentistry is the necessary adaptation to new protocols for safety and sanitation. Dr. Kelley Mingus and clinics across the globe have had to implement stringent measures to ensure the health and safety of both patients and staff.
The Shift in Cosmetic Dentistry Trends
Apart from operational changes, Dr. Kelley Mingus highlights that there are noticeable changes in patient behavior and trends in cosmetic dentistry due to the pandemic.
Increased Demand for Smile Makeovers
With the upsurge in virtual work and social interactions, people have become more aware of their smiles and overall facial appearances. As a result, practices like Dr. Kelley Mingus’s have noticed an increased demand for smile makeovers.
A Rise in Full Mouth Rehabilitation Procedures
As people have looked into improving their smiles, there has been an increase in comprehensive dental procedures, with more patients seeking full mouth rehabilitation. This treatment aims to repair or replace all of one’s teeth, improving not just aesthetics, but overall dental function and oral health as well.
Enhanced Focus on Oral Health
The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened everyone’s awareness of their health, leading to a more proactive approach to dental care. Cosmetic procedures are now seen not just as aesthetic improvements but as a means to enhance one’s overall health.
COVID-19 and Cosmetic Dentistry: Challenges and Opportunities
While the pandemic brought challenges, it also presented opportunities for cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Kelley Mingus discusses these in detail.
Challenges
The major challenges faced by many dental practices, including Dr. Kelley Mingus’s, were ensuring patient and employee safety, managing patient anxieties, and dealing with the initial slowdown in non-emergency procedures.
Opportunities
On the positive side, the pandemic brought about innovative technologies in cosmetic dentistry. Tele-dentistry has become more regular, providing a safe and convenient way for patient consultations. Also, it has driven the adoption of more advanced cosmetic treatments, like clear aligners and AI-assisted smile design.
Looking Forward: The Future of Cosmetic Dentistry
Despite the setbacks, the future of cosmetic dentistry looks promising. As Dr. Kelley Mingus anticipates, the industry is likely to witness an accelerated adoption of technology, a continued focus on comprehensive health and wellness, and an increased demand for cosmetic dentistry procedures.