1. Introduction

In the modern world, the appearance and condition of people’s teeth have become one of the key factors, affecting not just their general health, but the level of self-confidence and emotional state. Dental aesthetics — including the alignment, color and shape play a vital role in social interactions, how individuals perceive themselves, how they are perceived by others, as well as how they engage in daily and professional activities and overall quality of life. While considerable attention is paid to the medical and technical factors in dentistry, the aesthetic sphere has increasingly been recognized as a central component of oral health that reaches into a patient’s self-esteem.

PubMed American studies have shown how poor dental aesthetics contribute to negative self-image, social anxiety and reluctance to smile or communicate freely. Their research has shown significant associations between dissatisfaction with dental appearance and further psychological distress, social avoidance, and even depressive symptoms. In a study of 235 dental-clinic patients, 52.8 % (124/235) were not satisfied with their general dental appearance, where 56.2 % were unhappy with the color of their teeth, 32.3 % (76/235) felt their teeth were poorly aligned, 26.4 % (62/235) considered their teeth crowded [1].

Another vivid example of increasing demand for cosmetic dentistry is UAE. According to Credence Research reports, the cosmetic segment in the UAE has experienced an annual growth rate of 12 % over the past three years, where only tooth whitening procedures increased by 25 %. [2]

The Grand View research states that the UAE clear aligners market generated a revenue of USD 40.9 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 199.2 million by 2030 [3]. (Please refer to the diagram below).

The increase in demand in 2030 is predicted to be almost five times larger than 2024, highlighting the growing awareness, accessibility, and prioritization of dental aesthetics among the UAE population.

Improved visual appearance of teeth is not the only benefit of aesthetical procedures, such as braces. PMC research used a large-scale survey on two distinct groups of individuals: those who had orthodontic treatment and those who had not. They found that people who went through an orthodontic treatment had a lower probability of untreated dental caries compared to those who did not. In addition to this, the first group experienced a lower mean number of decayed teeth. This indicates that improved alignment helps reduce risk of caries, as misalignment (crowding, crossbite, open bite etc.) creates areas hard to clean, which trigger plaque formation and causes enamel demineralization, tooth decay and erosion.

These findings provide a deeper understanding of the fact that nowadays general health is not the only reason patients seek dental treatment, but that the aesthetic concerns and the desire for improved emotional well-being also play a significant role. This research will use a structured survey as the primary data collection method to gather insights from six participants residing in the UAE, which will help address the central research question: ‘How do dental aesthetics affect general health and emotional well-being?’.

2. Literature review

There are several important studies the relationship between dental aesthetics and different aspects of human health, including psychological well-being, oral functionality, and social confidence.

The 2014 study “The Importance of Dental Aesthetics Among Dental Students” revealed that even individuals professionally trained in dentistry are not immune to the psychological and social implications of dental appearance. Among 100 surveyed dental students, many reported concerns about their smile and tooth color, which affected their confidence, social interactions, and perceived career prospects [4]. This indicates that awareness of dental aesthetics deeply influences self-perception, reinforcing the psychological dimension of oral health.

Similarly, a study published on PubMed Central explored the broader psychological implications of dental aesthetics in adults. Using validated questionnaires, it found a strong correlation between dissatisfaction with self dental appearance and lower -esteem, higher social anxiety, and diminished emotional well-being [5]. This highlights that dental aesthetics are far from a purely cosmetic issue—they directly shape emotional health and social functioning.

The MDPI Healthcare Journal (2024) provided further quantitative evidence linking dental aesthetics to psychological health. In a cross-sectional study of 141 patients seeking orthodontic treatment, researchers found that 22 % of participants had low self-esteem directly tied to their perception of dental appearance [6]. Social impact, aesthetic concern, and dental self-confidence collectively explained 23 % of the variation in self-esteem, showing that psychological well-being is heavily dependent on how individuals perceive their own smiles.

A study conducted at a university hospital in Riyadh, KSA (2020), published in the Saudi Journal of Oral Sciences , also supported these findings. Nearly half of the adult participants (49.3 %) expressed dissatisfaction with their teeth color, which correlated with lower emotional satisfaction and higher interest in cosmetic dental procedures [7]. The scholars called for greater public awareness about safe and effective cosmetic dental options, recognizing that improving dental aesthetics can improve mental and emotional health.

Beyond psychological effects, dental aesthetics are closely linked to functional and physiological health outcomes. Misaligned or crowded teeth can lead to oral hygiene difficulties, increased plaque accumulation, and higher susceptibility to dental diseases. The systematic review “Dental Crowding as a Caries Risk Factor” synthesized eight studies and found a notable association between dental crowding and dental caries. Specifically, the mandibular anterior region (lower front teeth) showed a significant positive correlation between crowding and caries incidence, emphasizing how aesthetics-related alignment issues can translate into measurable oral health risks.

Further supporting this link, the International Journal of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology examined 1,119 individuals aged 13–21 and found that misaligned teeth were associated with various oral diseases, including cavities, toothache, and gum problems [8]. Notably, 298 participants had cavities, 547 experienced toothache, and 321 suffered gum issues—all linked to alignment disorders. The study underlined the functional consequences of poor dental alignment, suggesting that proper aesthetics contribute not only to attractiveness but also to healthier oral functioning.

Complementing this evidence, a PubMed (2023) study titled “Impact of Malocclusion and Oral Habits on Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and Sleep Disturbance in Young Adults” examined 213 participants aged 18–30. It found that malocclusions such as anterior open bite significantly impaired oral health-related quality of life and even contributed to sleep disturbances [9]. This suggests that improving dental aesthetics through orthodontic correction can enhance not only oral functionality but also broader aspects of general health, including rest and overall daily well-being.

Across these studies, a consistent pattern is seen: dental aesthetics influence both psychological and physiological aspects of general health. Improvements in orthodontics and aesthetic dentistry, especially in the past decade, have made it possible not only to enhance smiles cosmetically but also to prevent disease, improve oral function, and elevate self-esteem. This perspective suggests that a healthy smile supports both physical and mental wellness.

Individuals dissatisfied with their dental appearance experience reduced self-confidence, increased social withdrawal, and poor emotional stability, which can indirectly affect general health through stress and damage the overall quality of life due to the reduced social engagement. Misaligned or crowded teeth increase risks of caries, periodontal disease, and even systemic inflammation if left untreated. Therefore, maintaining dental aesthetics through orthodontic or cosmetic interventions is not just about improving appearance, it is a preventive health measure.

Dental aesthetics are an essential component of general health, influencing individuals on physical, psychological, and social levels. The alignment, color, and condition of teeth affect not only oral function and hygiene but also emotional well-being and self-perception. Studies from various countries and populations consistently show that aesthetic dental concerns correlate with mental health challenges such as low self-esteem and social anxiety, while misalignment contributes to oral diseases and discomfort.

With the progress in orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry, modern dental care should take a more complete approach that focuses on both function and appearance. Research shows that improving how teeth look can boost confidence, help people feel more comfortable in social situations, and improve emotional well-being. At the same time, better dental aesthetics can help prevent oral diseases and support overall health.

3. Methodology

Nowadays, more and more teenagers and young adults are claiming to get the cosmetic dental procedures, such as braces or veneers. Braces are the most common and effective method for correcting dental issues, including crooked teeth and misalignment. As the pressure to maintain an attractive appearance increases in modern society, the popularity of orthodonticc treatments continues to grow. Teenagers are often worried about their appearance, and many are willing to endure the possible discomfort that braces may cause, in order to boost their confidence while speaking or smiling in public, especially at school. For them, having straight teeth is not only about health but also about fitting in and being emotionally satisfied with physical looks.

Another procedure has also become increasingly popular among young adults, seeking quick and noticeable improvements to their smiles. Thin, custom-made veneers are applied to the front surface of the teeth to correct issues such as discoloration, uneven shapes, and minor gaps. In a society, where physical appearance is closely linked to self-confidence and social perception, many young adults view veneers as an appealing option for achieving a flawless smile with immediate results. Despite the higher cost and the fact that a small amount of enamel may need to be removed, the desire for polished and camera-ready appearance often outweighs these concerns. This treatment is typically performed for cosmetic rather than medical purposes, as veneers are mainly used to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing smile rather than to correct underlying dental issues. As a result, veneers have become a common choice for individuals seeking fast and prominent change.

4. Results

In my research, I aimed to provide information that helps to explore this issue. I designed a questionnaire consisting of 15 questions that focused on experiences with and opinions about dental cosmetic procedures. The survey was printed and distributed to 10 participants living in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Each participant was given 25 minutes to complete the questionnaire, ensuring they had sufficient time to provide thoughtful and accurate responses. This method allowed me to gather direct insights into their attitudes, motivations, and personal experiences related to cosmetic dental treatment.

Initially, my analysis began with an assessment of the demographic data obtained from the questionnaire I designed.

The demographic data varies across participants, but the highest percentage are individuals from the UAE. This indicates that the sample is largely representative of the local population targeted in this study. Two participants were from UAE, and one from each of the following countries: Iraq, Azerbaijan, Lebanon, Jordan and Syria, America and Bangladesh, Egypt, Ireland. Some of the participants had a mixed nationality, which made the investigation more diverse and allowed for a broader understanding of different cultural perspectives.

Another factor examined in the demographic data was gender, with 66.7 % of participants identifying as female and 33.3 % as male. This imbalance suggests that women may be more engaged or interested in dental aesthetic treatments, and therefore more willing to participate in research related to appearance and oral aesthetics. The higher female participation could also reflect broader societal trends, as women often report greater concern for cosmetic enhancements and self-presentation, which aligns with the objectives of this study. Overall, the gender distribution suggests that dental aesthetic treatments may hold stronger relevance or appeal among females, reinforcing the idea that aesthetic-driven oral care is often perceived as more significant for women. This pattern supports the research focus by highlighting how gender can influence attitudes, motivations, and engagement with dental aesthetic services in the UAE.

The age distribution of participants showed that the majority, 44.4 %, were 16 years old, while the remaining ages (17, 20, 26, 31, and 35) each represented 11.1 % of the sample. This indicates that younger individuals, particularly those in their mid-teens, were more prominent in the study. The strong representation of 16-year-olds suggests that dental aesthetic treatments, especially orthodontic procedures like braces or aligners, are commonly initiated during adolescence. The smaller but diverse range of older ages demonstrates that adults also pursue aesthetic dental improvements, though at a lower frequency. Overall, the age data suggests that dental aesthetic treatments are most commonly started during teenage years, aligning with typical orthodontic intervention periods, while still remaining relevant for adults seeking aesthetic enhancement later in life. This supports the research objective by highlighting how age influences the timing and motivations behind pursuing dental aesthetic procedures in the UAE.

When assessing the impact of dental aesthetic treatments on confidence, 88.9 % of participants rated the effect as 3 — strong effect, while the remaining 11.1 % rated it as 2 — effective. These results indicate that nearly all participants experienced a noticeable boost in confidence following their treatment. The overwhelmingly positive responses suggest that improvements in dental appearance, such as straighter teeth, better alignment, and a more attractive smile, directly contribute to enhanced self-esteem and greater comfort in social interactions. The confidence data suggests that dental aesthetic treatments play a significant role in improving individuals’ self-perception and social confidence. This strongly supports the research aim by demonstrating that aesthetic dental interventions are not only physical enhancements but also contribute meaningfully to emotional and psychological well-being.

Regarding affordability, 66.7 % of participants rated the treatment as 3 — very easy to afford, while the remaining 33.3 % rated it as 2 — affordable. This indicates that for all participants, the financial aspect of undergoing dental aesthetic treatment, did not pose a problem. The majority found the cost highly manageable, suggesting that either their families had sufficient financial resources or that dental services in their area offered pricing and payment options that made treatment accessible. The affordability data suggests that dental aesthetic treatments are generally financially accessible for the participants’ families, which may contribute to the high willingness to undergo such procedures. This supports the research by highlighting that cost is not a significant barrier in this sample, allowing individuals to prioritize dental aesthetics and associated confidence benefits.

In terms of accessibility, 88.9 % of participants rated dental aesthetic services in their area as 3 — very accessible, while 11.1 % rated them as 2 — quite accessible. This indicates that nearly all participants found it easy to reach clinics offering cosmetic and orthodontic treatments, suggesting strong availability of dental aesthetic services within their communities. The high accessibility may be due to the growing number of dental clinics, advanced facilities, and widespread orthodontic and cosmetic options across the UAE.

The accessibility data suggests that dental aesthetic services are readily available to most individuals in the study, reducing barriers to seeking treatment. This supports the research by showing that the UAE’s well-developed dental sector plays a key role in enabling individuals to pursue aesthetic improvements and benefit from associated functional and confidence-related outcomes.

5. Conclusion

Dental aesthetics are an essential component of general health, influencing individuals on physical, psychological, and social levels. The alignment, color, and condition of teeth affect not only oral function and hygiene but also emotional well-being and self-perception. Studies from various countries and populations consistently show that aesthetic dental concerns correlate with mental health challenges such as low self-esteem and social anxiety, while misalignment contributes to oral diseases and discomfort.

With the progress in orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry, modern dental care should take a more complete approach that focuses on both function and appearance. Research shows that improving how teeth look can boost confidence, help people feel more comfortable in social situations, and improve emotional well-being. At the same time, better dental aesthetics can help prevent oral diseases and support overall health.

References:

1. PubMed Research “BMC Oral Health” https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/1472-6831-11-6
2. Credence Research “Dentistry Market” https://www.credenceresearch.com/report/uae-restorative-and-endo-dentistry-market?utm_source=chatgpt.com
3. Grand View Research “UAE Clear Aligners Market Size & Outlook” https://www.grandviewresearch.com/horizon/outlook/clear-aligners-market/uae?utm_source=chatgpt.com
4. Journal of International Society of Preventive & Community Dentistry https://journals.lww.com/jpcd/fulltext/2014/04010/the_importance_of_dental_aesthetics_among_dental.10.aspx
5. National Library of Medicine https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9379174/
6. MDPI – Dental Aesthetics and Self-Esteem of Patients Seeking Orthodontic Treatment https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9032/12/16/1576
7. Saudi Journal of Oral Sciences https://journals.lww.com/sjed/fulltext/2020/07030/dental_esthetics_and_its_effect_on_psychological.11.aspx?utm_source=chatgpt.com
8. International Journal of Applied Sciences and Biotechnology https://ijasbt.org/vol_11/Deepak_and_Avinash-Tejasvi_11.4.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com
9. PubMed ‘Impact of Malocclusion and Oral Habits on Oral Health-Related Quality of Life and Sleep Disturbance in Young Adults’ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39354221/
10. Science Direct — Psychological Impact and Perceptions of Orthodontic Treatment.