Half of kids have low confidence because of their imperfect teeth - study

Half of young children experience low confidence because of their imperfect teeth causing both them - and their parents - stress and anxiety. A study, of 2,000 parents and children aged 4-11, revealed 84 per cent feel less confident with their smile and credit their insecurity to missing teeth (20 per cent), them not being “white” (20 per cent), wonky (19 per cent) or gappy (13 per cent). But acclaimed British photographer John Rankin has captured powerful photographs of primary school children proudly showing of their imperfectly perfect teeth, and showcasing the wobbly, gappy and snaggly gnashers in all their glory. John partnered with Aquafresh after research revealed 36 per cent of kids have been embarrassed to smile or laugh due to how they feel about their teeth. His images will be on display to the public at a gallery exhibition in London at Black & White Soho on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th April, 2024. John Rankin said: "Perfection is an attitude – so being able to help kids embrace their wobbly, wonky teeth and realise what is ‘considered’ as perfect teeth doesn’t matter has been brilliant. “Who doesn’t love to challenge the status quo – it’s more interesting being different, anyway.”