Dr Matei Călin

Medicine has been part of my life since childhood, through family members who chose to practise in this field. That is why I cannot say there was a single decisive moment, but rather an interest that developed gradually. 

I chose dentistry partly because I wanted to explore a different field – a specialism that none of my close relatives had pursued before. Today, I can say with complete conviction that it was one of the best decisions I have ever made.

I believe that cosmetic dentistry suits me because it perfectly combines two aspects I’m passionate about: medical precision and attention to detail. I like to approach each case as a personal project, in which functionality, health and aesthetics must exist in perfect balance. 

At the same time, it is one of the fastest-evolving branches of dentistry. Digital technologies, intraoral scanning and digital smile planning now enable us to achieve extremely precise and natural results. As someone passionate about innovation, I am motivated to learn constantly and to integrate these solutions into my day-to-day practice.

The first step begins with a detailed discussion with the patient to understand their wishes and expectations. This is followed by digital case planning, an essential stage for diagnosis and for drawing up a personalised treatment plan. 

Digital technologies also allow us to create a simulation of the final result, so that the patient can visualise their future smile and we can finalise all the details together before treatment begins. 

This is followed by the execution stage, carried out in collaboration with our colleagues at the ASPEN Digital Smile Design Dental Laboratory, who transform the digital plan into an aesthetically pleasing and functional result.

Adopting a digital workflow has a major impact on the final result, particularly due to the high degree of control it offers at every stage of treatment. From basic investigations, such as photographs and digital X-rays, to advanced technologies such as 3D scans, MODJAW recordings and software for simulating the final result, all contribute to the delivery of minimally invasive treatments with a high level of precision.

However, technology is only part of the process. When complemented by the dentist’s expertise and collaboration with a state-of-the-art laboratory such as ASPEN Digital Smile Design, the result is a harmonious, natural and functional smile, tailored to each patient.

Being part of the DENT ESTET team for almost 8 years has played a vital role in my professional development. During this time, I have had access to state-of-the-art technology, continuous professional development programmes and the opportunity to collaborate with specialists from various branches of dentistry. All of this has helped me to develop an interdisciplinary approach and to understand that the best results in cosmetic dentistry are achieved when precision, functionality and aesthetics are integrated into a personalised treatment plan.

At the same time, I have been constantly encouraged to develop my skills, to attend international courses and conferences, and to incorporate the latest techniques and digital technologies into my day-to-day practice. Looking back, I can say that these nearly eight years have shaped me not only as a dentist specialising in cosmetic dentistry, but also as a professional who prioritises the quality of care, innovation and the patient experience. I believe this is one of the most valuable lessons I have learnt during this time.

Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to learn from many colleagues, and each has contributed in a different way to my development. It wasn’t just one person who shaped my path, but a combination of mentors and colleagues who inspired me through their experience, rigour and passion for dentistry. 

My mentors within the team had a particularly significant impact; they taught me that dental aesthetics is not just about a beautiful smile, but about striking a balance between functionality, health and naturalness. From them, I learnt to pay attention to every detail and to view each case from the patient’s perspective.

Yes, I’ve had the opportunity to mentor colleagues who are just starting out, and this experience has been just as beneficial to me. Mentoring has taught me that, when you explain a concept or a technique, you also clarify and consolidate your own knowledge. At the same time, the questions and perspectives of my younger colleagues have challenged me to look at things from new angles and to always remain open to learning. 

In cosmetic dentistry, where technologies and materials are evolving very rapidly, I believe that sharing experiences is essential. I enjoy sharing what I have learnt, but also learning in turn from the energy, curiosity and openness of the new generation.

Collaboration with colleagues begins right from the earliest stages of treatment planning. We analyse each case together, discuss all treatment options and choose the one that offers the best results for the patient. At the same time, we map out the stages of treatment to ensure it is as effective as possible and that the patient’s experience at the clinic is as comfortable as possible.

At DENT ESTET clinics, interdisciplinary collaboration is what sets us apart, particularly in the case of complex treatments involving surgical, orthodontic or other procedures. Only by working together can we achieve the best possible outcome, both functionally and aesthetically, offering the patient a comprehensive and personalised treatment plan.

The cases I find most memorable are those which, once completed, significantly improve the patient’s quality of life. These are complex situations that require comprehensive rehabilitation and which, in the end, restore not only functionality but also the joy of smiling with confidence. For me, such results are the most wonderful confirmation of the dedication, attention to detail and hard work put in by the whole team.

Equally precious are the moments when patients tell me that, following treatment, they can smile from the heart or that they have regained their self-confidence. The joy I see in their eyes is, without a doubt, one of the greatest rewards of my profession and a reason why I carry out this work with the same passion every day.

I recharge my batteries by spending time with family and friends, doing sport or watching a good film. Generally speaking, any activity that I enjoy and that helps me switch off from the hectic pace of the day is a way for me to relax.