Melbourne’s True Aesthetic Dentist

Dr Yvonne King – Australia’s first dentist to hold a master’s degree in Aesthetic dentistry (M.Sc. Aesthetic Dentistry) King’s College, University of London.

You may be surprised to learn that any dentist can call themselves a ‘cosmetic dentist’, when in fact no such qualification actually exists!

Many people don’t realise the important distinction between a general dentist who offers occasional cosmetic work, with a practitioner whose professional focus is dedicated to ‘cosmetic’ or ‘aesthetic’ dentistry. Whilst most ‘general’ dentists will complete some cosmetic work on the odd occasion, it is important to consider the following:

A true cosmetic or aesthetic dentist is an experienced artist, who combines art with science, and a knowledge of not only aesthetics but also functional principles governing the mouth and surrounding structures. The final result is a smile that is breathtaking, meets the patient’s specific wishes, and provides long-term health and functionality.

Dr Yvonne King is the first dentist in Australia to hold a Masters of Science in Aesthetic Dentistry. The contrast between a ‘cosmetic dentist’ and a true ‘aesthetic dentist’ may be considerable.

Knowing the Difference: What is an Aesthetic Dentist?

	Cosmetic Dentist	Aesthetic Dentist
Continued Education	Weekend Lecture or Seminar Participation	M.Sc. – Master of Science (Aesthetic Dentistry) – 3 Years at University
Skill Level	Can change the appearance of teeth using basic skills learned in Dental School. May not have knowledge of established aesthetic principles. May prefer to limit their services to one type of cosmetic restoration they are comfortable with, eg. Lab designed porcelain veneers.	Also changes the appearance of teeth, utilising years of experience and ongoing education. Understands the art and science involved in creating a healthy and beautiful smile that fits each patient. Highly skilled in all types of restorations: porcelain veneers, resin veneers, crowns, implants, bridges.
Treatment Goal	Aims to improve appearance of the teeth alone, but result can be compromised by the issue of “form over function”. Changing the shape of a person’s “bite” can have serious consequences for the health of teeth, gums, jaw, facial muscles, and even the appearance of the face.	The paramount goals in Aesthetic dentistry is functionality, longevity and comfort, as well as beauty and harmony with the face. Aesthetic dentists have a scientific understanding of facial anatomy, and how to correctly adjust the appearance of teeth whilst retaining or improving the function and ongoing health of the entire mouth.
End Result	A new smile, whilst presenting cosmetic improvements, may look less natural, and which may not last as long, and require costly return visits.	A natural looking smile that harmoniously fits the character of the mouth and face, designed to last for many years.