Having an attractive smile is important to many people. Some think that larger, brighter teeth are more desirable. But is this really true? Do large teeth make a person more attractive?
The history of dental aesthetics
For most of human history, there were no cosmetic dentistry procedures to change the size, shape or color of teeth. The focus was solely on dental health and hygiene. In earlier eras, many people lost some or all of their teeth due to gum disease, cavities, or trauma. Having a full set of natural teeth was a sign of good health and status.
In the 18th century, dentures became more common among wealthy people. But they were often uncomfortable and ill-fitting. Porcelain dental crowns and bridges were introduced in the 19th century. This allowed people to replace missing teeth with ones that better matched their natural teeth.
It wasn’t until the 20th century that cosmetic dentistry really took off. Procedures like teeth whitening, enamel shaping, dental bonding and porcelain veneers became popular. For the first time, people could reshape and resize their teeth for purely aesthetic reasons.
The rise of American smiles
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, there was a surge in demand for cosmetic dentistry, especially in the United States. Porcelain veneers became a popular option for reshaping and enlarging teeth. The typical American smile became brighter, whiter and more uniform. There was emphasis on big, straight, ultra-white teeth.
This trend was fueled by the rise of digital photography and image-focused social media. Smiles were increasingly judged by how they looked in selfies and Facebook posts. More people wanted the “Hollywood smile” seen on movie stars and celebrities. Dentists responded with new techniques and materials to whiten, straighten and enlarge teeth.
Do people find large teeth more attractive?
Nowadays, large, bright smiles are everywhere – in magazines, advertisements, television and social media. The prevailing image is that bigger, whiter teeth are more attractive. But is this truly what people find most appealing?
Research has produced conflicting results:
- Some studies found that wider, longer teeth are rated as more attractive, healthy and youthful.
- Other studies found no significant correlation between tooth size and attractiveness scores.
- Some research suggests that medium-sized teeth are actually rated as most attractive.
There may be cultural differences too. A study in China found that people preferred smiles with teeth of a smaller size. And some intercultural studies found that Americans tended to prefer larger teeth sizes compared to Asians.
Potential downsides of large teeth
There are some potential disadvantages if teeth are enlarged too much:
- The smile may look unnaturally “toothy” or like a caricature.
- Overly large teeth may not be proportional to the mouth.
- Enlarging teeth can make the gums appear smaller, uneven or “gummy.”
- Junctions between veneers may be visible, making the teeth look artificial.
In short, moderation is key. Subtly increasing tooth width and length can improve harmony and proportions. But excessive enlargement can have the opposite effect.
Factors influencing dental attractiveness
Research suggests that many factors influence how attractive a smile is perceived, including:
- Tooth color and brightness
- Tooth shape and alignment
- Gum line contours and symmetry
- Smile line (amount of teeth exposed)
- Arch form and width
- Interdental spacing
So tooth size is just one aspect among many. And perceived attractiveness is subjective, with variation across individuals and cultures.
Achieving an aesthetic smile
If your goal is a more attractive smile, consider these tips:
- Get any dental health issues addressed first – an unhealthy mouth won’t look beautiful.
- Go for regular dental cleanings and maintain good oral hygiene.
- Whiten teeth if they are badly discolored.
- Consider orthodontics if teeth are crooked or overlapped.
- Repair any broken, chipped or malformed teeth.
- Recontour or reshape teeth for a harmonious smile line.
- Replace old fillings, crowns or veneers if they are stained or obviously artificial.
- Enlarge teeth moderately if they are small, irregularly sized or have gaps.
- Focus on achieving symmetrical proportions, not maximum size.
Cosmetic dentistry has many options to improve dental aesthetics. But restraint is advised when enlarging teeth. An overly “toothy” look risks appearing unnatural.
The health risks of large veneers
Porcelain veneers are a common way to enlarge and reshape teeth. But they require permanently altering the tooth structure underneath. This is irreversible and can weaken teeth over time if not done properly.
Potential risks and complications include:
- Tooth sensitivity – This occurs when too much underlying enamel is removed.
- Increased fracture risk – Excessive enamel removal can weaken the tooth and make it prone to chipping or breaking.
- Nerve damage – Aggressive drilling can damage the tooth pulp and nerves.
- Gum recession – Improperly contoured veneers may not provide adequate gum support.
- Loosening or detachment – This is more likely if too little enamel remains to bond with.
- Secondary decay – Damage to tooth structure can allow decay under the veneer.
To minimize risks, conserve as much original tooth structure as possible. Proper treatment planning and preparation by an experienced dentist is crucial. Even with good technique, veneers may need replacement in 10-20 years due to wear, damage or loosening.
Tips for safe veneer treatment
- Choose an experienced cosmetic dentist.
- Pick a conservative treatment plan.
- Use the least invasive method possible.
- Conserve and protect natural tooth structure.
- Ensure proper bonding to enamel.
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene.
Well-designed veneers with minimal tooth reduction can be a relatively safe way to enhance a smile. But improper treatment carries risks of tooth damage, so choose your dentist carefully.
Alternatives to veneers
For slight shape or color corrections, veneers may be excessive. Some less invasive options include:
- Teeth whitening – Bleaching brightens teeth without removing enamel.
- Dental bonding – Tooth-colored resin is applied to improve appearance.
- Enamel shaping – Removing small amounts of enamel can reshape teeth.
- Orthodontics – Braces can align and straighten teeth non-invasively.
- Dental crowns – These fit over teeth with less enamel removal.
Talk to your dentist about whether a conservative option could work for you instead of veneers. Less tooth reduction means lower risks.
Conclusion
Having large, bright white teeth is held as the aesthetic ideal nowadays. But be wary of taking it too far.
Moderately widening and lengthening teeth can improve smile proportions and harmony. But excessive enlargement looks unnatural and may damage tooth structure.
For a truly attractive smile, focus on balance, symmetry and conservative cosmetic treatments. Your smile should complement your facial features, not overwhelm them with artificially oversized teeth.
With careful dental treatment planning, it’s possible to enhance your smile aesthetics without taking extreme measures. Trust your dentist’s artistic eye for pleasing proportions. Avoid aggressive tooth reduction for oversized veneers, which carries risks.
Your smile should make you look naturally attractive, confident and healthy – not like you’re baring cartoon fangs.