Alarming Stats: 1 in 2 British children feel low confidence due to their teeth’s appearance

Missing, discoloured, and crooked teeth top reasons for children's smile insecurities

A new study by oral health brand Aquafresh has revealed how the societal pressure of having the “perfect” Hollywood smile affects children's self-esteem.

The study, which included 2000 parents and children aged 4-11, found that nearly 1 in 2 British children have experienced low confidence because of how their teeth look.

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More than 80 per cent of children reported feeling less confident with their smile due to missing teeth (20 per cent), teeth not being “white” (20 per cent), wonky teeth (19 per cent), and gappy teeth (13 per cent).

An additional 36 per cent have experienced embarrassment when smiling or laughing because of their dental appearance.

The pressure for perfect teeth not only affects children but it's also a concerning issue for parents.

Nearly half of parents (48 per cent) have noticed their children feeling self-conscious or lacking confidence due to how their teeth or smile look. Additionally, 43 per cent said that their children are impacted by society's obsession with "picture-perfect" teeth. Remarkably, 98 per cent of parents believe dental health is an important factor in their child’s overall confidence and self-esteem.

In an effort to raise awareness about the alarming statistics and encourage children to feel empowered by their healthy teeth, Aquafresh has partnered with acclaimed British photographer Rankin.

Together, they've captured impactful photographs of primary school children proudly displaying their imperfectly perfect teeth.  These images will be showcased to the public at a gallery exhibition in London, hosted at Black & White Soho on Saturday, 27 April, and Sunday, 28 April, 2024.

On this partnership and exhibition, Rankin said: "Perfection is an attitude – so being able to help kids embrace their wobbly, wonky teeth and realise what is ‘considered’ as perfect teeth doesn’t matter has been brilliant. Who doesn’t love to challenge the status quo – it’s more interesting being different, anyway!”

Monica Michalopoulou, spokesperson for Aquafresh, emphasised the importance of empowering children to take pride in their healthy teeth, stressing that “perfect teeth are just HEALTHY teeth!”

To celebrate dental diversity, the brand has developed toothbrush prototypes designed for all types of children's teeth, from gappy to snaggly. This initiative aims to promote positive associations with brushing and boost confidence, the company said.

Michalopoulou also noted that their ‘Shine Bright’ schools' campaign, aimed at raising awareness and enhancing dental education for parents, teachers, and children throughout the UK, is now in its fifth year. Accessible to all primary schools, the programme highlights the importance of early teeth brushing through fun and engaging activities.

Dr. Saul Konviser from the Dental Wellness Trust, is disheartened to learn that half of children experience low confidence because of their dental appearance.

“We know that if teeth are looked after and healthy, they are perfect! Dental health should be as much a part of a child’s self-care routine as washing their body and getting enough sleep – especially as we navigate the Dental Health crisis in the UK, and it becomes harder than ever to secure a dentist’s appointment.

“It’s so important for grownups – at home and in schools - to instil good dental hygiene habits in kids - habits will last a lifetime,” he said.