Chemistry, similar values, kindness…there are so many elements that go into a successful relationship. It doesn’t seem to get mentioned toward the front of the line very often, but as it turns out, oral health is a key factor in attractiveness for many people.
If someone isn’t motivated to maintain their smile for their own sake, maybe things change when it’s taking a toll on their romantic prospects. Keep reading to learn about the link between dating and dental health.
The Proof is in the Numbers
According to a Match.com survey, 71 percent of women said healthy teeth are the “must-have” feature in a partner. In fairness to men, they also consider a partner’s dental situation to be a huge deal with 58 percent of them listing it as the top priority.
Bad breath is also a no-go, as most respondents in a DentaVox survey said it was the deal-breaking oral health issue for them. A staggering 88 percent of DentaVox respondents said it is very important to date a person with an attractive smile.
Natural Selection Starts with Teeth Apparently
This prioritization of teeth may be biological. According to a researcher from the Match.com survey, “From a Darwinian perspective, good teeth are a real indication of your health – how much you drink, smoke, what you’re eating.”
So, your teeth allow a potential date to gauge how well you take care of yourself.
Awareness Is Essential
A couple of results from the DentaVox survey lead to a crucial point. Sixty-eight percent of respondents decided not to date someone because of oral health issues, while only 22 percent said someone stopped dating them because of it.
Also, 57 percent said they stopped dating someone specifically because of bad breath, but only 35 percent said someone broke up with them for this reason. When there is such a large discrepancy between these figures, it means that a person’s awareness of what they are presenting to their date is not nearly good enough. If people were more aware of their shortcomings with their oral health in a dating situation, these figures would be much closer to 50-50.
Self-Confidence Goes a Long Way
Most men realize how important being confident is in a dating situation, but the link confidence has with oral health should not be underestimated. And of course, having poor self-esteem because of a subpar smile can impact all aspects of a person’s life – friendships, professional situations, anywhere that human interaction is involved. Sadly, one in three young adults aged 18-34 say they are reluctant to smile, which can be misread as sadness, aggression, or other negative characteristics.
Don’t get too bummed out; let’s turn that frown upside down and realize that brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly can smooth out those rough seas of the dating game and other aspects of your life, as well. And if you need a cosmetic dentistry treatment to help get your smile back on track, help is just a phone call away.
About the Practice
At More Smiles Dental Spa, our team is dedicated to providing patients with dental care that exceeds expectations. We offer a wide variety of sophisticated dental solutions, state-of-the-art technology, relaxing amenities, experienced professionals, and one-on-one attention. Be sure to get a professional dental cleaning twice a year so your smile is ready to meet that special someone. To schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (985) 809-7645.