07 April 2022

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Smiles are top in online first impressions: Spark

Katherine E. Pfaff

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A person’s smile is the top physical trait that is most important (76%) in making first impressions online, according to an online survey commissioned by Spark Clear Aligner system. The survey included 2,000 Americans who are 18 years or older and was conducted by OnePoll. 

Based on the company, 68% of Americans find those who smile to be approachable, confident, and trustworthy compared to those who are less apt to smile. However, when thinking about themselves, a majority (3 out of 5) are not happy with their own smile in photos. 

"Whether we like it or not, we are often judged by our appearance," said Sheila Tan, vice president, global marketing and clinical education for Spark Clear Aligners. "The results of this Impression Evolution survey prove what I've always believed, which is the importance of an attractive, healthy smile, whether you're socializing and networking, face-to-face or virtually.  Your smile has more of an effect on what others perceive about you than you think."   

About 40% of respondents said they sometimes did not smile in photos and intentionally made another expression to avoid a smile. Further, 60% of those surveyed felt they would see a benefit to having their teeth straightened, and 70% thought straighter teeth would benefit their self-esteem. 

The ubiquity of social media only heightened pressure to have a pleasing appearance and smile online. This extended to social, dating, and professional apps.

Source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/first-impressions-are-everything-new-study-confirms-people-with-straight-teeth-are-perceived-as-more-trustworthy-confident-and-approachable-301509477.html