Autopercepção da estética do sorriso de pacientes em atendimento na Clínica Escola de Odontologia de uma instituição federal de ensino superior.

Abstract

The growing search for aesthetic excellence, associated with a harmonious smile, has become a requirement for individuals to fit into the standards of their social context. Consequently, small defects in the aesthetics of teeth can lead to insecurity and fear of negative public reactions, which can trigger problems with self-esteem and self-confidence, which in turn motivates them to seek aesthetic dentistry. Based on this, this study aims to evaluate the self-perception of smile aesthetics in patients treated at the Dental School Clinic of the Federal University of Campina Grande, Patos campus, in relation to the aesthetics of their own smile. This research adopted a specific questionnaire directed at patients as a data collection strategy, covering questions about self-perception of smile aesthetics. In general, the majority (69.4%) were satisfied or very satisfied with their smile. However, when asked if they would change anything about their smile, most patients (75%) said yes, and the change that prevailed in the responses was in relation to the color of their teeth (61.1%). Finally, most responded that these changes would somehow improve their personal life (70.4%) and their professional life (61.1%). The results highlight the importance of dental aesthetics not only for oral health, but also for the psychological well-being, self-confidence and social relationships of individuals.