Oral health is increasingly linked not only to overall health, but also to confidence and daily behaviours like smiling. A new survey released Friday found that more than half of Canadians say they would smile more if their teeth were healthier or better looking.
The poll, conducted in August by Leger Marketing for 123Dentist, surveyed about 1,500 people across the country. Released Friday to mark World Smile Day, it found that more than half of Canadians (51 per cent) say they would smile more often if their teeth were healthier or better looking.
One in three respondents said they are dissatisfied with their smile, while nearly all (97 per cent) agreed oral health is essential to overall health.
The survey also revealed the impact on daily behaviour:
- 38 per cent of Canadians avoid smiling in photos or social settings because they feel self-conscious about their teeth — a figure that rises to 64 per cent among those unhappy with their smile.
- One-third report smiling less than they did two years ago, while only 20 per cent say they smile more.
- 84 per cent believe a great smile contributes to self-esteem and overall well-being.
- 90 per cent say a confident smile shapes first impressions.
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Smiles Across Canada campaign
To address these concerns, 123Dentist — one of Canada’s largest dental support organizations, with more than 450 clinics nationwide — has launched Smiles Across Canada, a national campaign designed to highlight the importance of oral health and encourage more Canadians to smile.
The campaign features a new mascot, “Smiley,” community events in 10 cities, charitable initiatives and partnerships with local organizations. It also includes a broadcast and digital advertising push and a refreshed 123Dentist.com to help patients access care.
“These survey results show that Canadians smile less than they used to,” said Jeff Leger, CEO of 123Dentist. “We’re dedicated to reversing that trend by launching the Smiles Across Canada campaign and by continuing to elevate patient-centred care at our dental clinics.”
123Dentist’s founder and executive chair, Dr. Amin Shivji, added that dentistry has always been about more than teeth. “It’s about people,” he said. “We’ve been able to assemble an amazing network of dental professionals across our clinics who deeply care about their patients and aim to make them smile.”