Is the gap-tooth smile the new face of fashion?

The gap-toothed smile flashed by some of today's top models has caused a trend in quirky dental work

It seems the perfect smile is no longer defined by a row of identically sized, bright white teeth but a more natural - even slightly crooked - gap-toothed grin.

Thanks to models like Lara Stone and Georgia Jagger, The Observer claims there has been a boom in quirky dental treatments, with an increased demand for imperfect cosmetic orthodontic procedures.

The New York Times also reported a growing demand for painstakingly customised veneers with the correct balance of lifelike translucency and opaque whiteness, despite its price-tag of £1,560.

One Manhattan dentist told the paper: ‘The white standard got too white and the perfection standard got too perfect.’

The imperfect pout has been one of fashion's most sought after looks since Australian model Jessica Hart's appearance in the 2009 Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue, with The Wall Street Journal claiming designers at New York fashion week were seeking out models with 'character faces'.

The gap-tooth seems to be this season’s most sought after accessory with some models even having brackets inserted between their front teeth to widen the gap and improve their careers.

'I have certainly noticed an influx towards the aesthetic gap-tooth smile,' says Cassie Steer, Marie Claire's Beauty writer. 'Designers no longer push for flawless models but look for an interesting canvas to work up on. An imperfect smile oozes personality and character.'

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