Agreed that there are many skilled and decent dentists out there. However, it is difficult (if not impossible) for someone new to an area to find out which dentist has a good cosmetic reputation (particularly if the people you know have not had cosmetic work). Dr Khaira, I'd say anyone who takes the time to answer questions as thoughtfully as you do is bound to take just as much care in the mouth. Sadly not all dentists have the same motivation to do a perfect job with which the patient is satisfied.
Anyone who can be a truly successful dentist must be greatly admired. By truly successful I don't mean building up an imposing practice with plumped cushions and deep pile carpets with a shiny jag on the drive. I mean building up a large number of happy (smiling) patients who recommend you with glowing accounts. It takes a unique blend of left and right brained intelligence, an aesthetic eye, people skills, patience, understanding attention to detail and dexterity to do the job well. Excellent communication skills are a must too.
Mercury vapour is dangerous for anyone to breathe in (it can cause all sorts of symptoms and is one of the atmospheric pollutants blamed for MS attacks). Both patient and dentist can be protected by shielding airways, but how often does this happen in reality?
The ten opinions is also true. So what should the patient do? I'd say look after your teeth and get checks ups but question any radical treatment plan if you are not in pain. Having ten opinions and doing nothing is better than having your teeth uncessarily drilled - you cannot ever reverse a drilled natural tooth and nothing artificial can ever truly replicate its perfection and strength when healthy. If you have a real problem you will be in pain sooner rather than later. My theory is that if you don't notice your teeth there is nothing wrong with them. If you notice something (twinges etc) that means you should get it checked. Watchful waiting is the ideal solution if unsure.
A lot of people these days rush into cosmetic work having seen makeovers on tv and I'd say they should be more careful and more aware of the risks and limitations as well as the responsibilities. The private dental profession has never been well regulated in the UK and cosmetic work used to fall under the sale of goods act ("fit for purpose" etc) rather than any medical legal framework. Not sure what the situation is now as dentists seem more aware of the possibility of legal action and take more steps to avoid negligence claims.
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