Open-Mouth SmileTraits, photo tips, and Smile Score impact
Teeth visible with separated lips — high-energy, approachable expression that broadcasts warmth. Open Duchenne smiles typically achieve the highest Smile Scores.
Test your smile with our Smile Analyzer, check Smile Score bands, or read the Duchenne glossary entry.
Key Traits
- ✦Teeth visible
- ✦Wide mouth aperture
- ✦High perceived warmth
- ✦More lower-face movement
- ✦Can show gums if excessive
Photo Tips
- 📸Don't force mouth open — let it happen naturally
- 📸Keep upper lip relaxed to avoid gum over-show
- 📸Ensure teeth are visible but not the only focus
- 📸Even lighting on teeth and lips
Related Smile Types
Closed-Mouth Smile
Lips stay together while corners elevate — a subtle, sophisticated expression common in editorial and formal portraiture. Can be genuine or social depending on eye engagement.
Duchenne Smile
The gold standard of genuine expression — Duchenne smiles activate both the mouth (zygomatic major) and eyes (orbicularis oculi). They score highest on Smile Tracker and read as authentically warm in human perception research.
Gummy Smile
Excessive gum tissue visible above upper teeth when smiling — typically more than 3mm. A structural variant, not an expression type, but it significantly affects smile geometry and photo composition.
FAQ — Open-Mouth Smile
Are open smiles more attractive?
Research suggests open Duchenne smiles rate highest for warmth and approachability in many cultures.
Open vs closed for professional photos?
Closed suits formal contexts; open suits social media and casual branding.