Although many people understand the importance of a good smile, only half think that their smile makes the grade.
A recent study by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry revealed some interesting perceptions people have about smiles:
9 out of 10 people agree that an attractive smile is an important social asset.
3 out of 4 agree that an unattractive smile can compromise a person’s chances for career success
only ½ of those surveyed were satisfied with their smiles!
What might make a smile less attractive?
While we all recognize an attractive smile, most people do not necessarily understand the components that make an individual smile attractive. There are many factors that, when added up, create the perception of beauty. For me, attractiveness is merely a collection of components that fall within average.
When we see a smile we tend to notice first the things that fall out of the normal range, such as:
• a dark tooth
• a missing tooth
• teeth that are excessively crowded
• apparent decay
• puffy bleeding gums
Even if there are one or more components that would be considered out of the range of normal, a smile can still be considered attractive. A simple example would be a person who has white teeth, and healthy gums but some slight crowding.
In this case, since the majority of the things we notice about this smile are normal, and the irregularity is only slightly out of the average range, we tend to see the smile as attractive. Should additional components fall outside of the norm, the smile may seem less attractive.
Are you happy with your smile?
Here is a simple smile assessment test:
• Do you feel awkward or self-conscious about your smile?
• Do you cover your mouth when you talk, laugh or smile?
• When having your photo taken, do you close your lips?
• Do you avoid using bright lipstick because you are afraid of highlighting your smile?
• Have you ever grown a moustache or beard to help you hide your smile?
If you answered yes to any of the above questions, your dentist may be able to help you by providing some cosmetic dental treatments. In fact, today, there are very few situations where cosmetic dental treatments cannot help create a beautiful smile.
Learn more about cosmetic dental treatment options
Improving your smile can be life changing. If you would like to learn more about changes that are possible for your smile, please schedule a consultation. We think you will be glad you did.