Lucknow: Cosmetic smile makeovers, popularly known as ‘Hollywood smiles’, are no the privilige of celebrities. Dentists in the city say a growing number of young professionals and middle-aged residents are opting for smile-enhancement procedures, driven by social media, weddings and greater awareness of aesthetic dentistry.Private clinics said monthly consultations for smile makeovers have increased from two to three patients five years ago to around eight to 12 now. The prosthodontics department at King George’s Medical University (KGMU) has recorded a similar trend, with enquiries rising from four to six patients a month to around 10 to 15.Experts say most patients seeking Hollywood smiles are aged between 22 and 45 years. Corporate professionals, entrepreneurs, doctors, lawyers, influencers, and brides and grooms-to-be account for a large share of those opting for the treatment. While women still form a slightly larger group, dentists say the number of men undergoing cosmetic dental procedures has risen sharply in recent years.According to dentists, changing lifestyles and the growing importance of personal image are fuelling demand.“People today see smile enhancement as an investment in confidence rather than merely a cosmetic luxury,” said Dr Amay Tripathi, who runs a private clinic chain. Constant exposure to photographs, video calls and social media platforms has made people more conscious of their appearance, he said.“Celebrity smiles and social media have made smile aesthetics aspirational,” said Prof Kamleshwar Singh of KGMU’s prosthodontics department. Wedding photography, selfies and professional networking have also contributed to the trend, he added.Elderly patients form another niche being served by the dentists as cosmetic smile and makeovers are not a privilege for only the young. “Gifting a beautiful smile, not only enhances confidence but is immensely important for social, mental and physical well-being of our elderly patients,” said Dr Ali Atif, oral and maxillofacial surgeon heading a private clinic. He added, “I have treated multiple elderly patients with severe depression and they walked out of my clinic with the smile they yearned for throughout their lives.”The so-called Hollywood smile is not a single procedure. Experts say it is a customised treatment plan that may include teeth whitening, bonding, veneers, aligners, gum contouring or implants, depending on the patient’s needs. The term Hollywood smiles trace its origins to 1928, when dentist Charles Pincus created temporary veneers for film actors. Improvements in dental technology later transformed them into permanent cosmetic smile-makeover treatments.Dentists caution that not everyone is a suitable candidate. Gum disease, tooth decay and other oral health issues must be treated before cosmetic procedures are undertaken.“The focus should always be on preserving natural tooth structure and maintaining long-term oral health,” said Dr Amit Anand, who runs a chain of clinics.Comprehensive smile makeovers in the city cost anywhere from Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 6 lakh or more. Dr Anand advised patients to choose qualified cosmetic dentists and understand the long-term maintenance involved before opting for treatment.
