Body dysmorphic disorder and facial aesthetic treatments in dental practice

There is a relatively high prevalence of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and it is known that this patient group regularly and frequently visit dental practitioners, especially those who advertise themselves as cosmetic or aesthetic practices. The market for facial aesthetics is hugely increasing both generally and within dental practices making it ever more likely that dentists will encounter this patient group frequently. Moreover, due to the nature of their concerns individuals within this group are likely to have contact with dentists (or other medical professionals in the physical health field) prior to any contact with mental health professionals. The aim of this paper is to give an overview of the presentation of BDD, to discuss the changing climate of facial aesthetic treatments and to highlight a care pathway for general dentists. Identification of patients with potential BDD is far more predictable with the use of a validated questionnaire, and the BDD Questionnaire and Dysmorphic Concern Questionnaire are described. A flowchart approach for the management of patients requesting aesthetic improvements is presented as the ideal method for identifying, referring and managing the aesthetic treatment desires of potential BDD patients.