Tomorrow, February 14th we celebrate Valentine’s Day, but will your teeth guarantee you a date or a lonely meal for one?

If you read magazines or visit dating or relationship websites on a regular basis, you will probably be aware that a nice smile is one of the most important features for most people who are looking for a new partner. Your smile can affect the way you behave and act around others, as well as the way you look and people who are not happy with their smile can come across as shy and lacking in self-esteem.

Historically, an attractive smile has always been associated with beauty, success and status and this is still true today. If you catch a glimpse of the red carpet at an awards ceremony or scrutinise magazine adverts you will notice that the majority of film stars, singers and models all have perfect smiles.

Why are bad teeth such a turn-off?

If you have crooked, twisted or stained teeth or missing teeth, this can have a huge impact on your overall appearance and even the most stunning face can be dented by an unattractive smile. Bad teeth can be associated with poor oral hygiene and a lack of self-esteem and self-respect, as well as impacting on confidence, which is an important trait for many people when they are looking for a boyfriend or girlfriend.

What can be done to improve your smile?

There are so many things that can be done by dentists serving London patients to improve the aesthetic appeal of your smile, from brushing twice a day every day, to having cosmetic dental treatment. A good oral hygiene routine, which should include brushing for two minutes twice a day, flossing and using mouthwash, is key to healthy looking teeth and will help to prevent discolouration and oral health diseases. Cosmetic dental treatments, including veneers, tooth whitening, cosmetic bonding and orthodontic treatment, can help to correct existing problems, such as staining, chipped and crooked teeth and create a beautiful, natural smile.