For many singles, online dating is the go-to way to find romance. But what truly makes a dating profile stand out?
We surveyed 500 UK dating app users who currently or have ever used dating apps to find out what people first notice in a dating profile, how confident they feel about their smile, and what factors influence their self-perception in dating.
Our research suggests that your smile could be the ultimate dealbreaker (or dealmaker!). With first impressions made in an instant online, a confident, white smile might be the key to securing that all-important right swipe.
The science behind first impressions in online dating
Users make snap judgments based on profile photos when scrolling through dating apps. According to our recent survey conducted in February 2025, 40% of people say a smile is the first thing they notice in a dating profile, ranking higher than a well-written bio (33%) or shared hobbies (31%).
This highlights the importance of projecting warmth and confidence through profile photos, particularly as research has shown that smiling is contagious. When someone sees a smile, they are likely to smile back, triggering the release of neurochemicals in the brain that are associated with positive emotions.
Dr. Affan, Clinical Director at Space Dental, says: “A genuine smile not only makes you look more attractive but also makes others feel at ease. When online dating, connections are built through photos before conversations, therefore it’s no surprise that people who smile in their dating profile photos tend to attract more attention.”
What do people notice first on a dating profile?
| Feature | Percentage of People Who Notice It First |
| Smile | 40% |
| Bio | 33% |
| Hobbies & Interests | 31% |
| Eyes | 25% |
| Lifestyle Choices | 23% |
| Grammar & Spelling | 23% |
| Whether They Have Children | 21% |
| Job & Education | 20% |
Are you smiling in your dating profile? Data says you should be
Despite the clear preference for smiles, not everyone includes one in their profile. The study found that only 62% of people (those who said they “always” or “often” smile in their dating profile) actively showcase their teeth when posing for dating photos. Meanwhile, 5% of users said they rarely smile, and 2% never do.
| How Often People Smile in Their Dating Profile Photos | Percentage |
| Always | 29% |
| Often | 33% |
| Sometimes | 29% |
| Rarely | 5% |
| Never | 2% |
This suggests that some people are holding back their smiles, possibly due to self-consciousness about their teeth. Dr Affan adds: “Many people avoid smiling in photos because they feel insecure about their teeth. This is something we hear all the time from patients seeking cosmetic treatments. The good news is that there are plenty of ways to enhance your smile, such as professional teeth whitening, straightening, or simply booking regular check-ups and hygienes.”
The rising demand for white teeth and smile confidence
The survey also found that whiter teeth would make people feel more confident about their smile, with 61% saying they wish their teeth were brighter. Other common concerns included wanting straighter teeth (40%) and healthier gums (28%).
| What Would Make People More Confident About Their Smile? | Percentage |
| Whiter Teeth | 61% |
| Straighter Teeth | 40% |
| Healthier Gums | 28% |
| Fresher Breath | 26% |
| Fewer Gaps or Missing Teeth | 17% |
It’s no surprise that demand for cosmetic dentistry is on the rise, particularly for professional whitening treatments and aligners. Whether preparing for Valentine’s Day or simply looking to enhance confidence in everyday life, more people are recognising the value of investing in their smiles.
How to achieve a confident, white smile for online dating success
If your goal is to boost your confidence and make the best first impression, here are some simple ways to enhance your smile:
1. Professional Teeth Whitening
Whitening treatments can lift stains and brighten your teeth by several shades, making your smile instantly more attractive. While at-home whitening kits exist, professional treatments offer faster, safer, and longer-lasting results.
2. Teeth Straightening
Crooked teeth can make people feel self-conscious, but with clear aligners and modern orthodontics, achieving a straighter smile is now more discreet and convenient than ever.
3. Daily Routines
Even simple daily habits like brushing twice a day, flossing, and using mouthwash can improve the health and appearance of your teeth over time. Regular dental check-ups also play a crucial role in maintaining a bright and tidy smile.
4. Avoiding Stains
Tea, coffee, red wine, and certain foods can lead to tooth discolouration over time. Cutting down on these, or using a straw when drinking, can help maintain a naturally white smile.
5. Smiling Naturally
Forced or overly posed smiles can sometimes feel unnatural in dating photos. Instead, relax your face, think of something that makes you genuinely happy, and let your smile shine naturally.
Dr. Affan concludes: “A confident smile isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about feeling comfortable in your own skin. Whether you choose to enhance your smile through professional treatments or simply take better care of your teeth, the key is to smile freely and confidently. When you feel good about your smile, it shows and that’s what makes the best first impression, both online and in real life.”
Your smile is your best asset this Valentine’s Day
As Valentine’s Day approaches, dating apps will see an influx of users looking for a connection. If you’re hoping to stand out, the research is clear: a confident smile is one of the most attractive features you can have.
By investing in your smile, you can boost your confidence and make a lasting impression on potential matches. After all, when it comes to online dating, sometimes the smallest details make the biggest difference.
Want to boost your dating confidence with a brighter, healthier smile?
Book your free consultation and explore our range of cosmetic treatments today.
Methodology
This online survey of 500 UK adults who currently use or have ever used dating apps was commissioned by Space Dental and conducted by market research company OnePoll. Participants were specifically screened to ensure they currently use or have ever used dating apps before completing the survey. Data was collected from 5th to 10th February 2025. The research explored what people first notice in a dating profile, how confident they feel about their smile, and what factors influence their self-perception in dating.
