Valentine’s Day is almost here, which means that more than ever people are trying to impress potential romantic partners. If you’ve been unlucky in love recently, it’s possible that your teeth could be to blame!
Surveys show again and again that a good smile is one of the things that people value most in a romantic partner. If you want to see why your teeth are your greatest wingman, here’s some evidence to support that being the case.
The Hidden Ick
Over the years, no shortage of studies have been done about what people look for in a romantic partner. Again and again, one answer rises to the top: good teeth!
One survey conducted by Dentavox found that 88% of respondents said it was “very important” to date someone with an attractive smile. Around 68% of people claimed that they decided not to date someone who had bad teeth, and 57% claimed to stop dating someone with bad breath.
As it turns out, this preference transcends age; The Adult Oral Health Survey found that 3 in 4 Gen Xers and Baby Boomers agreed that good oral health is one of the sexiest qualities someone can have. No matter how old you are, or who you’re interested in dating, you can bet that a good smile will help you make a better impression.
Confidence
Another thing people look for in their romantic partner is confidence, and if you’re unhappy with your teeth it can be hard to project that. A study by the ADA found that one in three young adults are reluctant to smile because of their teeth, and that 28% of them feel like their teeth compromise their confidence during job interviews. The same principle applied to dating—if you’re unhappy with your smile you won’t be able to make the same impression that you could otherwise.
How to Get a Better Smile
If you’re insecure about your teeth, the first thing to try is good dental hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use mouthwash after brushing to keep your teeth shining & prevent gum disease. You should also be sure to see your dentist biannually for a checkup and cleaning—they’ll work with you to help you make the best impression possible.
About Our Practice
Whether you’re in need of a simple checkup or a complete smile makeover, we’re here for you at North Garland Family Dental. We have both a general dentist and a certified periodontist on staff, meaning that we can treat a much wider variety of issues than many other providers. On top of all that, we have a hard-working, empathetic dental team that will be sure to make you feel welcome.
If you have any questions about how your oral health can affect your love life, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (972) 530-7979.
