Botched Cosmetic Dentistry Rising: Latinas at Risk?

Cosmetic work becoming increasingly acceptable and in certain cultures, expected:

• Spending by Latina consumers on personal care products grew by 40%, 3x faster than non-Latinas;
• Number of Hispanics opting for plastic surgery in the U.S. rose by 19% in 2009 — faster than any other ethnic group. (1)

Celebration of Latina beauty is not new – Brazil is often lauded for its Victoria’s Secret Angels – but per Dr. John Moore, DDS, principal of Cosmetic Dental Associates (CDA), the quest to be perfect now extends to having a beautiful smile.

“People want a perfect smile for many reasons, including boosting self-confidence and striving for that glowing, radiant smile seen on many celebrities.” – Dr. Moore

But there’s a RISK. Botched cosmetic dentistry is rising:

• Correction of botched work increased up to 40% since 2004;
  • $16 billion spent correcting botched work in 2016, up from $10B.

Dr. Moore estimates the number is likely closer to $20 billion. (2)

The Botox trend of the early 2000s found that patients sometimes pursue beauty from less expensive, alternative providers not adequately trained: 84% of people with complications from permanent dermal fillers required corrective surgery or were deemed untreatable due to the damage caused (3).

For Latin Americans, the problem is even more pervasive: in Colombia, it’s estimated that up to 30% of cosmetic work is performed by doctors without proper training or performed in unauthorized clinics by non-medical personnel.

To avoid botched cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Moore warns patients to vet their cosmetic dentist carefully:

• Ask for pictures and videos. If the doctor has none to share, it’s likely they haven’t had good results.
• Visit the dentist in person. Check out the facility and see that it meets your standards.
• Ask all kinds of pertinent questions that show you will get the result you want, that all concerns most important to you are addressed.