They say that first impressions are everything. Whether it’s a job interview or a first date, many people admit that they’re not immune to making snap judgments based on someone’s appearance. From shoes to hairstyle and clothes to smiles, there’s certain things that people look to when meeting someone for the first time. There’s an old saying that says that a good smile “warms hearts and opens doors.” As your Jacksonville orthodontist we understand that an attractive and welcoming smile is an important part of making a positive impression. Smiles express confidence, happiness, and friendliness, and according to a recent study, they’re increasingly important for reflecting both personal and professional success.

In this recent perception study conducted by Kelton for Invisalign, researchers found that the alignment of teeth is a catalyst for assumptions regarding popularity, intelligence, success, and general health. Most people realize the importance of a healthy, attractive smile, but it may have more of an effect on your social and professional life than you think. This particular perception survey was taken by over 1,000 nationally representative Americans. The participants were asked to give their honest option when shown pictures of people with varying tooth issues, but they weren’t made aware that they were comparing people with straight and crooked teeth. Researchers found that Americans perceive people with straight smiles as having more desirable qualities, such as being happy and professionally successful, when compared to those with crooked teeth. Here are 7 more findings of this study:

Smiles make a lasting impression: Your pearly whites make a lasting impression. Almost one-third of Americans say that the first part of someone’s face they notice is their teeth and almost one-fourth admit that this is the facial aspect they remember the most after meeting someone.

Straight teeth are linked with success: According to the study, Americans perceive those with straight teeth as 45% more likely than those with crooked teeth to get a job when competing with someone who has the same skill set. Those with straight teeth are also thought to be 58% more likely to be successful and 58% more likely to be wealthy.

A nice smile makes you seem more trustworthy: Almost three out of four Americans would be more likely to trust someone with a good smile versus a good job, outfit, or car.

Straight teeth are associated with a good personality: Participants in the study associated more positive descriptions with those who have straight teeth versus those with crooked teeth. People with straight teeth were perceived as 21% more likely to be seen as happy, 47% more likely to be viewed as healthy, and 38% more likely to be perceived as smart.

Crooked teeth are associated with a dull social life: Almost two out of every five Americans would consider not going on a second date with someone who had crooked teeth, this is more than the number of people who would ditch someone who still lived with their parents.

Straight teeth make you seem more attractive: When it comes to a possible match on a dating site, those with straight teeth are perceived as 57% more likely than those with crooked teeth to get a date based on their picture alone.

Having an attractive smile is important to Americans: Many Americans have a straight, healthy smile on their wish list. Almost 60% would rather have a straight smile than clear skin and 87% would give up something for a year to have a nice smile for the rest of their lives.

If having a straight, attractive smile is important to you, there’s no reason to hold you back from making that dream come true. With today’s advancements in orthodontics technology, there are plenty of treatment options available to best fit your particular case and lifestyle. Invisalign clear aligner trays are a great option for adults who are looking for comfortable and virtually invisible treatment. Incognito braces are also a great option for discreet treatment since the braces are placed on the backs of the teeth and out of sight. Other options include clear ceramic braces and traditional braces, all of which are effective options for achieving the straight, healthy smile you desire. If you’re ready to make lasting first impressions that impress, the team at Melbourne Orthodontics is here to help!