Smile is Greatest Asset to Memorable First Impressions, Study Says

MADISON, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--When it comes to making a positive first impression at work or in personal relationships, nothing comes close to the impact of an attractive smile, according to a new survey conducted by Kelton Global on behalf of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, http://www.aacd.com.

“And in our fast-paced, technology driven world, more people are getting their first impression of you online in profiles and pictures. The smile is our area of expertise, and we’d like to help make it a little easier for anyone to put their best face forward.”

Forty-eight percent of Americans believe that a smile is the most memorable feature after first meeting someone – more so than the first thing a person says (25 percent), the way they dress (9 percent) or the way they smell (8 percent). Adults 50+ are even more likely than their 18-49 year old counterparts (52 percent vs. 45 percent) to remember a smile when first introduced to someone.

The survey also showed that some Americans view people with crooked or stained teeth as less attractive (37 percent) and less confident (25 percent) than those with perfect teeth. More women than men (40 percent vs. 35 percent) say that an imperfect smile makes someone less appealing.

Free First Impressions E-Guide

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, which helps with improving smiles, has teamed up with a panel of lifestyle experts to create First Impressions in the Digital Age, a free e-guide to everything you need to know to make the most of that first personal or professional connection –whether online or off.

“You only get one chance to make a positive first impression,” said Dr. Ron Goodlin, AACD President. “And in our fast-paced, technology driven world, more people are getting their first impression of you online in profiles and pictures. The smile is our area of expertise, and we’d like to help make it a little easier for anyone to put their best face forward.”

In the e-guide, lifestyle photographer Dale Stenbroten with The Artist Group Photography shares insights on how to create the most effective visual image for your personal brand; social media expert Ashley Thiesen Caldwell, owner of The Modern Connection, focuses on how you can build a dynamic online profile across social networks. Margery Sinclair, etiquette expert and author of A Year of Good Manners, offers the do’s and don’ts of personal and professional etiquette.

Visit www.aacd.com for more information about The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.