Symmetry is satisfying. When things line up just right and are even, we see beauty. From brand logos to nature to architecture, there’s a noticeable difference in how we feel when we look at something symmetrical versus asymmetrical, and smiles are no different. In our culture, teeth are seen as a reflection of ourselves. Does smile symmetry affect other people’s perceptions of us? We say yes. There is a science of smiles and we’ll go over all the details behind smile symmetry.
Symmetry and Balance
One of the first things we see when we meet someone for the first time is their smile. The science of smiles says that symmetry is a reflection of balance. More often than not, a person with a symmetrical face and smile features those characteristics because the structures that make up their smile are in harmony with one another. Symmetry showcases bones, muscles, joints, and tendons that are working correctly and efficiently.
What Does Your Symmetry (or Asymmetry) Say About You?
Experts generally agree that roughly 70-90 percent of communication is nonverbal. That means most of what you convey to others isn’t in what you say but rather how you say it.
For example, in a conversation, the person or people listening to you can be influenced by:
- Facial expressions
- Gestures
- Loudness
- Tone
- Body language
- Appearance
Your appearance’s involvement in nonverbal communication is the combination of a few things. Smiles are often one of the first things we notice when meeting someone, so they carry a lot of weight in determining someone’s perception of you.
Teeth that are unnaturally shaped, either from grinding or clenching, can look more mature or aggressive than smiles with natural curvature, which can give the impression of soft or youthful. Dr. Marzban explores this phenomenon in an article for the Washingtonian.
Creating Symmetry
Dental symmetry is important for various reasons; not only does it affect people’s perception of you, but it also creates the foundation for a healthy, functional smile. Dr. Marzban offers an array of treatment plans for patients looking to restore smile symmetry, including but not limited to:
- Veneers
- Invisalign
- Myofunctional therapy
- Dental implants
- TENS unit stimulation
- Functional Orthodontics
- Digital smile designs
Correcting Asymmetry in Burke, VA
Dr. Pamela Marzban has years of experience treating patients and providing them with beautiful and balanced smiles. Her knowledge and cutting-edge approach to dentistry relieve patients’ pain and put them on track to long-term solutions. For more information on dental symmetry and balance, contact Dr. Pamela Marzban’s office at 703-323-8200.
