Algorithmic Smile Ideals: How Short-Video Dentistry Shapes Expectations, Appearance Anxiety, and Consent Among Young Adults

Liu Yulan; Florenly; Shieny

doi:10.61919/wf7n1s02

Authors

Liu Yulan Universitas Prima Indonesia, Medan, Indonesia Author
Florenly Universitas Prima Indonesia, Medan, Indonesia Author
Shieny Universitas Prima Indonesia, Medan, Indonesia Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61919/wf7n1s02

Keywords:

short-video dentistry; cosmetic dentistry; ideal smile; appearance anxiety; informed consent.

Abstract

Background: Short-video platforms increasingly present cosmetic dentistry through highly visual transformations that combine clinical information, advertising, testimonials, and appearance ideals. Although social-media exposure has been associated with dental aesthetic perceptions and interest in cosmetic procedures, less is known about how young adults interpret such content and incorporate it into appearance evaluation, consultations, and treatment decisions. Objective: To explore how short-video dental content shapes young adults’ perceptions of ideal smiles, appearance-related comparison and self-surveillance, use of visual references during dental consultations, and deliberation about cosmetic dental treatment and informed consent. Methods: An interpretivist qualitative study was conducted in Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia, from February to May 2026. Twelve purposively sampled adults aged 18–29 years who regularly used TikTok, Instagram Reels, or YouTube Shorts and had undergone, sought, or seriously considered cosmetic dental treatment participated in semi-structured interviews lasting approximately 45–60 minutes. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Four interrelated themes were developed: the algorithmic ideal smile, from inspiration to self-surveillance, screenshot-led consultation, and consent under aesthetic momentum. Repeated exposure contributed to perceptions of whiteness, alignment, symmetry, and apparent naturalness as desirable norms. Content could reduce embarrassment and improve treatment awareness while also encouraging repeated comparison and appearance checking. Nine participants had shown or intended to show screenshots during consultations, which facilitated communication but could also become implicit benchmarks for expected change. Participants further described how accumulated emotional, visual, social, and practical investment in an anticipated outcome could make benefits more salient than uncertainty, maintenance, irreversibility, alternatives, or no treatment. Conclusion: Short-video dental content formed part of the broader relational context in which participants interpreted cosmetic expectations and treatment choices. Clinician engagement with visual references, biological limitations, conservative alternatives, and meaningful decision time may support more reflective and informed cosmetic dental decision-making

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