Cosmetic dentistry is a specialty that requires at least three things from the dentist: extensive experience, an artistic touch, and the ability to integrate each patient’s needs and desires as a guiding principle of the treatment plan. Excelling in all of the above, Dr. Nelson Y. Howard is a national leader in the field of cosmetic dentistry. His recent article published in aesthetic advances, “Considerations for treating transgender patients” (April 2018), details the need to consider the differences in anterior teeth between men and women. This publication is one of many articles from Dr. Howard — he continues to lead the pack in the field of cosmetic dentistry!
About Transgender Transformations
A smile is worth a lot. While you may not realize it, there are distinct features that signal differences between a man and a woman’s smile. No matter what stage of transition trans patients are in, they can feel welcome, cared for, and optimistic when they visit Dr. Howard for their smile transformation.
Some specific dental considerations for trans patients include:
- The anatomical shape of the anterior (front) teeth
- The shape of the edges of the teeth — masculine teeth tend to be more angular, while feminine edges are typically rounded
- Tooth thickness
- The texture of the front teeth
- The size of the teeth and the arch form space (the part of the smile that you see)
Choosing a dentist who is well aware of the importance of these differences can make all the difference in the end result of a cosmetic transformation.
Your Caring Cosmetic Dentist
Dr. Howard has considerable experience treating trans patients at all stages of their transitions. As he explains in the recent article,
“[Transgender patients] do not feel reluctant to seek out dental care nor feel they are being discriminated against or viewed as different when they come in for a consultation and/or proceed with their treatment, either on a routine basis or when they are wanting changes to complement their transition. Rather, most are outgoing, enthusiastic, happy, and self-confident individuals and proud to be who they are, regardless of what level or stage of trans they are presently in now.” (p. 22)
He firmly believes any level of bias from a dental professional — from the dentist to the assistants, hygienists, and all support staff — would be completely unacceptable. Patients of all ages and stages of life can feel completely comfortable visiting this dental team for a wide range of dental services.
Talk to Dr. Howard this Month
If you are interested in visiting a caring, compassionate cosmetic dentist, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Dr. Howard and his team. They provide a range of valuable services for patients in and around San Diego and San Marcos. Go ahead and contact the “dentist near me” you are searching for through his website today.