Queen Elizabeth II has been named as Britain’s favourite smile, reveals new research by SmileDirectClub to coincide with World Smile Day earlier this month. The news comes following a difficult year for the Monarch, showing the nation’s support. Her Majesty takes the top spot alongside Queen of daytime TV, Holly Willoughby, closely followed by actress Michelle Keegan.
The new research, released by the oral care leader with the first Medtech platform for teeth straightening SmileDirectClub, cites the Queen’s genuine smile (58%) and natural character (26%) as reasons why she tops the list for Brits.
Half of the respondents (48%) agree that having a straight set of teeth is the most important feature in creating a perfect smile, along with pearly white teeth (33%). Discoloured teeth (52%) and missing teeth (51%) are the top factors that contribute to an unattractive smile.
It’s widely reported that smiling increases mood-enhancing hormones while decreasing stress-enhancing hormones and has the ability to reduce your overall blood pressure, so it may come as no surprise that over half of Brits (52%) list somebody smiling at them as the top reason to make them smile during the day. Receiving a compliment was mentioned by 45% of respondents and talking with friends or family was detailed by 42%.
Following the washout summer, bad weather (42%) was listed as the top reason that would make people frown during the day. This is closely followed by slow Wi-Fi (37%).
Although the research shows that smiles have the power to make somebody’s day, when asked to look at their own smile, 1 in 4 (25%) Brits said they weren’t happy with theirs, citing reasons such as not liking their teeth (47%), not having white teeth (45%) and having wonky teeth (31%). Furthermore, 71% of respondents said they would smile more if they liked their teeth.
Interestingly, one in four Brits said that wearing a mask during the pandemic was a blessing and made them feel more confident as they didn’t have to show their teeth.
David Cran, VP, UK, Ireland, & Iberia at SmileDirectClub, comments; “We know that smiling has so many benefits so we are disheartened to see from the research that many people are feeling self-conscious about their smiles. SmileDirectClub believes everyone deserves access to a smile they love, so we are on a mission to get the nation smiling again.”
SmileDirectClub starts at £70.09 a month or £1,539 upfront and treatment can take as little as 4 to 6 months. Either visit a SmileShop for a free 30 minute appointment and a 3D scan or order a dentist-prescribed, easy to use at-home impression kit that’s delivered straight to your door.
