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The pursuit for natural aesthetics – Mr. Matthieu Dupui Biomedical engineer TBR

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  Posted by: Dental Design      11th January 2019

None of us can deny that digital technology has changed the way we live and provided us with revolutionary tools and resources that, quite literally, put the most useful information right at our fingertips. Yet, for all of technology’s benefits, there are equally as many issues that have been created as a result of its use – one of these issues being that technology has changed the way we perceive ourselves and others. Prior to smartphones, consumers relied on magazines and cinemas as the sole media outlets from which to marvel at our favourite film icons, who were praised for their unattainable beauty, style, and grace. These were the stars of the media that were admired far beyond the reach of the average Joe.

Today, however, the internet is the go-to source for consumable content, and it has become saturated with images of celebrities who continue to be idolised by the masses, but no longer seem so impossibly distant from the rest of society. In fact, social networking platforms have enabled celebrities to chronicle every detail of their lives online, creating an almost intimate relationship between themselves and the public. This is a harmless exercise for the most part, but the negative consequences of having such an accessible window into the world of celebrities is that many people are now continuously comparing themselves to others – fostering a culture of obsession over appearance, which ultimately stems from the desire to feel accepted.

Although some value it more than others, it is a basic human instinct to want to belong. Some psychologists believe that in order to do so, we each present a slightly altered version of ourselves, depending on the environment and whose company we are in. The way we conduct ourselves at work, for example, may be entirely different to how we dress and act at home. This is a representation of ourselves that has been tweaked and modified so as to be accepted in that particular situation. Worryingly, however, this need to fit in can manifest in negative ways, detrimentally impacting an individual’s physical and psychological wellbeing. As a result, some people suffer from body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), which is a condition whereby an individual obsesses over flaws in their appearance – often out of fear of being rejected. In extreme cases, BDD can lead to depression, self-harm, and even thoughts of suicide.[i]

Despite these concerns, there are still many people advocating for technology’s benefits, which enable society to adopt a more body positive approach towards appearance. Through social media, we are now encouraged to embrace our physical ‘flaws’ or change the way we look should we want to. Being able to interact with influential figures and popular trendsetters on a more personal level means that people are able to see first-hand what can be achieved in regards to their appearance. So for those that have always been insecure of their physical features, this presents an opportunity for them to alter their appearance. In the most positive instances, people are able to improve their self-confidence and self-image, which can do wonders for enhancing an individual’s quality of life.

This is perhaps one of the many reasons why modern cosmetic surgery has grown incredibly popular in the last few years. Yet, attitudes towards facial aesthetics have somewhat shifted slightly, with patients looking to achieve more natural looking treatment outcomes. Again, this can be linked back to the extent in which we admire our favourite celebrities – Meghan Markle is credited for fuelling the ‘baby botox’ trend, which involves injecting small doses of botulinum toxin into several areas of the face, but leaving longer time between treatments to ensure a more subtle and ‘au naturel’ result.

Unsurprisingly, this pursuit for natural aesthetics is no longer limited to cosmetic surgery, as more and more patients are seeking to enhance their smile through dentistry. In fact, cosmetic dental practitioners are under increasing pressure to deliver restorative treatment that is indistinguishable from the natural teeth. As such, many patients are now choosing to undergo treatment for dental implants, as opposed to conventional solutions like dentures or bridges, which cannot always guarantee superior function and aesthetics. This emphasises the need to supply high quality implant solutions; but with an array of systems currently available on the market, it can be difficult to choose which one to invest in.

Traditional titanium implants, for instance, can become visible through the gingiva, thus compromising the overall visual result. However, the TBR Z1 implant is unlike any other system in that it combines the biocompatibility of titanium with the natural tooth-like characteristics of zirconia in one seamless component. This unique design not only promotes excellent osseointegration, but also encourages the soft tissue to heal around the implant in a way that mimics natural gingival growth. Practitioners are able to effectively manage the soft tissue in order to ensure an optimal aesthetic and functional outcome.

Evidently, digital technology plays a huge role in influencing perceptions of ourselves and others. Being aware of its effects is vital to ensuring it remains a positive presence within our lives.

For more information on the Z1 implant, visit tbr.dental, email support@denkauk.com or call 0800 707 6212

[i]Body Dysmorphic Disorder Foundation. (Unknown) About BDD. Link: https://bddfoundation.org/helping-you/about-bdd/. [Last accessed: 04.10.18].


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