A Comparative Evaluation of Contemporary Aesthetic Perceptions Between Dental Students and Laypersons

Aesthetic perception of the smile plays a critical role in social interactions and facial attractiveness. With the increasing influence of social media, aesthetic standards have become more dynamic and may differ between individuals with professional dental education and laypersons. This study aimed to compare dental aesthetic perceptions between dental students and laypersons and to investigate the influence of social media.

This cross-sectional study included 242 participants aged 18-30 years, comprising 130 dental students and 112 laypersons. A 10-item online questionnaire was used. Questions 2-6 assessed preferences for tooth colour, gingival display, lip fullness, diastema and 'bunny teeth'. Questions 7-10 evaluated social media use and its perceived influence. Data were analysed using R software, with significance set at p < 0.05.

White tooth colour and normal alignment were preferred in both groups. Dental students showed a higher preference for reduced gingival display. No significant differences were found for lip fullness or diastema. Social media use was high(96.6%), with Instagram the most used platform (80.3%) and more influential among dental students. Most participants reported that social media affects their aesthetic perception.

Dental students and laypersons showed largely similar aesthetic preferences, with minor differences. Social media has a notable influence on aesthetic perception in both groups.

Most participants, including dental students, reported that social media influences their perception of dental aesthetics. Recognising this influence may help clinicians better understand patient expectations and improve communication in aesthetic dental practice.