White teeth are highly valued by young adults. But an even tooth color is considered to be of even higher importance. A study from the University of Gothenburg, one of the first of its kind, shows that many people with a deviant color on a part of a tooth would like treatment.

The aim of the study, published in the journal Acta Odontologica Scandinavica, was to investigate young individuals’ aesthetic perception of the color on the visible surfaces of the upper front teeth in themselves and in others.

The results are based on an online survey, launched via social media and targeted at individuals aged 18-30 years in Sweden. There were 2,082 participants, 55% of whom were women. The average age was 25 years.

Participants were asked to rate how satisfied they were with their own tooth color and how they perceived unevenness of tooth color (deviant color on a part of a tooth, spots). The results showed that 77% of participants were satisfied with their tooth color, with no major differences between gender and age. In contrast, those who perceive having a deviant color on a part of a tooth were less satisfied with their tooth color.

The color of teeth is noticed

Participants were also shown photos of different teeth with and without deviant color on a part of the enamel of the front teeth and then asked to rate aesthetic impression. When participants looked at the photos and found the tooth color unacceptable, 90% of them cited the color deviation as a cause, with shade and extent also playing a role.

White teeth were revealed to be very popular. On a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being unimportant and 10 being very important, white teeth scored an average of 7.25. Even higher scores were given to an even tooth color, with an average score of 8.

Laura Ståhl is a Ph.D. student at the Institute of Odontology at the University of Gothenburg, a Dental Professional in the Public Dental Service in Gothenburg and the study’s first author.

“What we found is that the participants in the study notice uneven tooth color, and that it is something that is perceived negatively. We also observed that those who are more satisfied with their own tooth color placed more importance on the color of teeth, both their own and that of others.

“It is important to understand how young people view their teeth, to listen to them and take their concerns seriously. Oral health is a broad concept—it is not only about having a healthy mouth, but also about being able to smile, laugh, and show self-confidence in every expression,” says Ståhl.

Color correction: Yes, please

In the study, a higher proportion of women (22%) than men (13%) had experience with teeth whitening. Of those who reported having a deviant color on a part of a tooth, 9% had color corrective treatment. Another 52% were interested in having it.

The study is also authored by Nina Sabel, Associate Professor at the Institute of Odontology at the University of Gothenburg, senior dentist in pediatric dentistry, and with knowledge of aesthetic treatment of uneven tooth color.

“Teeth are seen as an important part of the appearance, and some young people are troubled by having a deviant color on part of a tooth. Teeth whitening or other treatments will not give you a total makeover, but can lead to improvements if done correctly,” she says.

“Dentistry does not own the issue of teeth whitening, which I wish it did. Different color deviations have different causes, requiring different types of treatment. In addition, dental professionals are knowledgeable about the risks and can prevent injury to gums, for example. A tip to minimizing side effects is to ensure that the bleaching is done in a controlled manner with a low concentration of hydrogen peroxide. It is also important not to over-bleach, because once your teeth have turned neon white, you cannot go back,” says Sabel.