Understanding and Perception of Smiles in Relation to Esthetic Dentistry

Abstract

Background: The smile is a vital aspect of human communication and has a significant impact on dental aesthetics and personal confidence. Esthetic dentistry, including smile design and analysis, plays a critical role in enhancing smile appearance. However, research on the perception of smiles, particularly among dental professionals, remains limited. This study aims to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and self-perception of smiles among dental students, interns, general dentists, and specialists, while also exploring factors that influence smile evaluation.
Methods: A study was conducted with 275 participants, including dental students, interns, general dentists, and dental specialists, who were selected through random sampling at a dental clinic. Participants completed an electronic questionnaire designed to assess their demographic characteristics, knowledge of esthetic dentistry, attitudes toward smile perception, and experience with esthetic dental treatments. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics, and responses were categorized by demographic factors, academic year, and professional experience.
Results: The study revealed significant correlations between academic year and knowledge of esthetic dentistry topics, with more advanced students demonstrating greater knowledge. Gender and age influenced self-perception, with females and older participants rating their smiles more positively. Notable trends also emerged regarding factors influencing smile evaluation, including gender, age, and social status. Additionally, approximately half of the participants reported undergoing esthetic dental treatments, but no significant correlations were found between demographic variables and treatment history.
Conclusion: The study provides valuable insights into dental professionals' perceptions of esthetic dentistry and self-assessment of smile aesthetics. As students progress in their studies, their understanding of smile-related topics increases. Gender and age play critical roles in how individuals perceive their own smiles and evaluate others'. These findings highlight the importance of tailoring smile design and treatment approaches to the unique perspectives of patients. Further research with larger and more diverse samples is needed to generalize the findings.