[Cosmetic dentistry. An ethical reflection on the boundaries of embellishment]

Abstract

From a technical point of view the possibilities of aesthetics in medicine and dentistry are unlimited. This makes the call for moral boundaries a number one topic. It is especially this 'question of boundaries' with regard to the realisation of embellishments, which is considered problematic: who determines the moral boundaries of dental intervention for embellishment purposes and where do those moral boundaries of embellishment lie? Considering the increasing possibilities it is not advisable to just leave this to the individual dentist, let alone to the patient. Te vision of the profession is needed, so that the individual dentist feels supported.