Whether we like it or not, we’re often judged by our appearance. When meeting someone for the first time, it’s almost impossible not to make snap judgements about anything from their hairstyle to their shoes. One of the first things that many people notice when meeting someone new is their smile. A smile can go a long way, and when it comes to first impressions, a smile can be a deal breaker. A recent perception study supports the importance of smiles and found that properly aligned teeth are a positive trigger for assumptions regarding attractiveness, success, popularity, intelligence, and overall health.

Your smile may have more of an effect on what others perceive about you than you think. In this particular study, researchers found that many Americans believe that teeth are a standout feature when meeting someone for the first time. This unique perception study compared pictures of men and women with both straight and crooked teeth. There were 1,047 respondents from across the country who were shown images of people with varying tooth issues. The participants were then asked to give their honest opinion about the photos without being told that they were comparing people with straight and crooked teeth. The study found that Americans perceive people with straight teeth as having more attractive qualities than those with crooked teeth, such as being happy, professionally successful, and surrounded by loved ones. Some of the other findings include:

A good smile makes a lasting impression:

Almost one third of Americans agree that the first aspect of someone’s face that they notice is their teeth and almost one fourth agree that this is the facial aspect that they remember the most after meeting someone.

Straight teeth equals success:

The study found that perceptions about straight or crooked teeth also extends to assumptions about a person’s professional and financial success. Americans perceive those with straight teeth as 45% more likely than those with crooked teeth to get a job when competing with someone with a similar skill set or experience level. Those with straight teeth are also seen as 58% more likely to be successful and wealthy.

Straight teeth are more attractive:

When attracting a possible mate on a dating site, people with straight teeth are 57% more likely than those with crooked teeth to get a date based on their picture alone. Almost two out of five Americans would consider not going on a second date with someone who as crooked teeth, which is more than the 23% who would skip a second date with someone who lives with their parents.

Straight teeth improve personality perceptions:

Those who had straight teeth were described more positively than those with crooked teeth. People with straight teeth are perceived as 21% happier, 47% healthier, and 38% smarter than those with misaligned teeth.

A good smile increases trust:

When compared to someone with a nice car, job, or outfit, Americans are 73% more likely to trust someone with a good smile.

People want straight teeth more than dessert:

Having a nice smile is a priority for most Americans. About 57% of Americans would rather have a good smile than clear skin and 87% would give up something, such as dessert or vacations, for one year to have straight teeth for the rest of their life.

There are many studies that indicate that lasting impressions are made within the first three seconds of seeing someone, which is why so many adults are concerned about having a beautiful smile for both professional and personal success. Achieving your dream smile is more attainable than you may think. With treatment options such as clear ceramic braces and Invisalign, patients can benefit from orthodontic treatment without a drastic impact on their lifestyle or appearance. At Melbourne Orthodontics, we want our patients to have the confidence to achieve whatever personal or professional goals they may have. As your Melbourne orthodontist, we’re here to help you achieve those goals with a smile you can be proud of. To get started on your dream smile, contact us today!