Michael Strahan’s Teeth: Iconic Gap, Dental History
Michael Strahan’s smile – especially his famous gap between the front teeth – has been a topic of curiosity for years. In this comprehensive FAQ, we explore his dental history, the story behind his gap-toothed grin, and whether he’s had any cosmetic dental work. Each question below is answered with evidence-based insights from a dental expert perspective, reflecting Strahan’s own statements and reliable sources.
Michael Strahan teeth: Michael Strahan new teeth before and after
Michael Strahan has not undergone a permanent “new teeth” makeover – his trademark gap remains unchanged. In early 2021, he playfully teased fans with a video where a dentist closed the gap in his front teeth, giving a glimpse of a gap-free smile. This sparked “before and after” buzz, but it turned out to be an April Fools’ prank. The procedure in the video was temporary, using a removable dental piece to fill the gap. Before the prank, his smile always featured the notable gap; in the “after” segment of the joke video, the gap was momentarily gone. However, after the prank, Strahan confirmed that his gap-toothed smile is here to stay, pleasing fans who consider it his signature.
In terms of appearance, there is little real “before vs. after” change in Michael Strahan’s teeth because he ultimately kept his natural look. The short-lived “after” (gap closed) was merely for entertainment. Strahan’s actual before-and-after story is one of confidence rather than cosmetic change – he has the same gap now as he did decades ago, and he embraces it as part of his identity. Any differences in his smile over time have been subtle improvements (like whitening and maintenance) rather than structural changes.
Michael Strahan teeth: historical dental transformation and evolution
Over the years, Michael Strahan’s dental appearance has remained largely consistent, with the gap between his front teeth present since his youth. Unlike many celebrities who undergo major cosmetic dentistry, Strahan’s “transformation” is more about personal growth and acceptance than physical alteration. In his early NFL days (1990s-2000s), photos show the same gap-toothed grin that fans recognize today. Through the 2010s, as he transitioned to television, his smile became brighter and perhaps more polished – likely due to regular professional dental care such as cleanings or whitening – but the essential features (including the gap) stayed the same. He did not undergo orthodontic closure or veneers, so there was no drastic change in alignment.
To illustrate the evolution of his smile, here is a timeline of Strahan’s teeth over the years:
Period | Smile and Teeth Condition |
---|---|
Youth & Early Career | Had a natural midline gap (diastema) between front teeth; no cosmetic interventions. Teeth were healthy but not artificially perfected. |
NFL Prime (2000s) | Gap-toothed grin became a trademark on the field. Teeth showed normal wear but no signs of significant dental work. Strahan did not fix the gap despite increased public visibility. |
TV Career (2010s) | Smile appeared brighter and well-maintained. Possibly underwent teeth whitening and minor touch-ups for a camera-ready look, but gap and tooth shape remained unchanged. No braces or veneers were applied to close the gap. |
2021 Prank | Briefly displayed a gap-free smile using a temporary dental piece as a prank. This was not a permanent transformation – just a short-term visual change for humor. |
Present (2025) | Gap is intact and celebrated as part of his image. Teeth are clean, white, and healthy, reflecting good oral care rather than cosmetic alteration. |
Overall, Michael Strahan’s dental journey is characterized by continuity and self-confidence. He famously nearly closed the gap in his 20s but ultimately chose not to change his teeth. Instead of a dramatic dental makeover, his smile’s “evolution” lies in him embracing his natural features. Fans have watched him go from a young athlete with a unique grin to a polished TV personality – all while retaining the same distinctive teeth, simply keeping them healthy and bright.
Michael Strahan smile
Michael Strahan’s smile is broad, confident, and defined by the gap between his front teeth. As a Hall of Fame NFL player turned television host, he often flashes a friendly, charismatic smile that has become part of his personal brand. Dentistry-wise, his teeth (aside from the gap) are well-aligned and proportionate to his face, contributing to an aesthetically pleasing smile even by conventional standards. His central incisors (the two upper front teeth) are symmetric and healthy, merely set apart by the midline space.
From a cosmetic dentistry perspective, Strahan’s smile might not fit the textbook “perfect” mold due to the gap, but it exemplifies how an unconventional feature can be a positive trademark. He has expressed that the gap makes his smile uniquely his own and that he feels no need to “fix” it. Fans and colleagues often describe his smile as warm and recognizable.
Notably, Michael Strahan even ensured his gap was represented when commemorating his career. During his Pro Football Hall of Fame induction, he insisted that the bronze bust of his face include him smiling – gap and all – reflecting how integral that smile is to his identity. Overall, his smile shows that dental uniqueness and character can outweigh strict perfection. As a dental expert, one can say Strahan’s smile is a great example of someone having a healthy, cared-for set of teeth and the confidence to sport a natural feature proudly.
How did Michael Strahan fix his teeth?
Michael Strahan has never permanently “fixed” (closed) the famous gap in his teeth, despite teasing the idea. In 2021, he released a video of himself in a dental chair apparently closing the gap, which led many to believe he had undergone a cosmetic procedure. However, he later revealed this was an April Fools’ Day joke. The gap closure was achieved with a temporary removable dental appliance (a device similar to a veneer or retainer) provided by a cosmetic dentist for the prank. This means no irreversible procedure was done – it was a theatrical simulation of what his teeth would look like without the gap.
Outside of that prank, Strahan’s approach to his teeth has been mostly maintenance and preventive care rather than “fixing” in the cosmetic sense. He keeps his teeth clean and likely has routine dental check-ups, cleanings, and whitening to maintain a camera-ready smile. When asked over the years if he would fix his gap, he consistently explained that he chose not to alter it. In his own words, he “made the conscious effort” to accept his teeth as they are. Thus, aside from normal dental care, the only time he momentarily “fixed” his gap was for fun. He has not undergone braces, bonding, or permanent veneers to close the space.
In summary, Strahan’s teeth were never truly in need of fixing from a health perspective – the gap is a cosmetic trait that doesn’t harm oral function. And by embracing it, he set an example that not every unique dental feature must be corrected. So, the short answer is: he hasn’t permanently fixed his teeth at all, and he’s happy with them as they naturally are.
What are the differences between Michael Strahan old and new teeth?
There are no drastic differences between Michael Strahan’s “old” teeth and “new” teeth, because he has maintained essentially the same teeth throughout his adult life. Unlike someone who gets a full cosmetic dental makeover, Strahan’s dental appearance as a young NFL player versus as a veteran TV host is remarkably consistent. His “old” teeth (e.g., in the 1990s and early 2000s) already featured the gap and a generally healthy set of teeth. His “newer” teeth (2010s–2020s) are the same teeth, just kept in good condition and perhaps brightened over time.
That said, a few subtle differences can be noted over the years:
- Whitening and Brightness: In his early career, Strahan’s teeth were a natural shade. In later years, especially on television, his teeth appear whiter and more polished. This suggests he may have undergone teeth whitening or improved his oral hygiene routine, which is common for TV personalities.
- Alignment and Shape: His tooth alignment has not significantly changed. Photographs from different eras show that aside from the front gap, his teeth alignment was fairly straight to begin with. If anything, minor orthodontic touch-ups or the natural settling of teeth might have occurred, but he did not close the gap or dramatically reshape any teeth. His central incisors remain slightly separated, and other teeth have their natural contours.
- Wear and Restoration: Over decades, teeth can show wear. Strahan’s teeth do not show obvious wear or damage even after his NFL years, implying he’s taken good care of them. He might have small fillings or restorations like any adult, but nothing that visibly alters his smile. No gold or silver fillings are visible; any dental work has been cosmetic and tooth-colored if done.
Importantly, when people refer to his “new teeth,” they are often talking about the brief moment he showed a gap-less smile in 2021. That was not a permanent change – just a glimpse of what his teeth would look like without the gap. After that stunt, his teeth reverted to their usual appearance, so the “before and after” basically became “before and before” again.
In conclusion, the differences in Michael Strahan’s teeth over time are minimal. He looks after them, so his smile today is essentially a cleaner, perhaps brighter version of what it was years ago – with the iconic gap still front and center.
Michael Strahan decaying teeth
There is no indication that Michael Strahan has decaying teeth. On the contrary, all evidence points to him having healthy teeth and gums. In the numerous close-up photos and TV appearances he’s made, his teeth appear intact (no visible cavities or rotten areas) and his gum line looks healthy (no obvious swelling or recession). He is known for a bright, white smile, which usually means good dental hygiene and possibly professional cleanings or whitening, none of which align with having untreated tooth decay.
To address the term “decaying teeth”: that refers to teeth undergoing dental caries (cavities) or rot, often seen as brown or black spots, holes, or broken tooth structure accompanied by pain or bad odor. Michael Strahan’s teeth do not show these signs in any public imagery or reports. In interviews or autobiographical details, he has never mentioned serious dental problems. As a public figure, if he had poorly maintained or decaying teeth, it would likely be noticeable and possibly commented on in media – but the commentary around his smile has focused on the gap, not any decay.
Moreover, as someone who invests in his appearance for television, Strahan would attend to any dental issues promptly. He also has the means to get top-notch dental care. Thus, if a tooth ever started to decay or develop a cavity, it’s safe to assume he got it treated (filled or restored) before it could become visible or problematic. From a dentist’s perspective, Strahan’s on-screen smile shows healthy enamel and coloration, with no signs of significant decay. Therefore, any rumors or questions about “decaying teeth” are unfounded.
Are Michael Strahan teeth showing signs of decay?
No, Michael Strahan’s teeth do not show signs of decay. Whenever he smiles on camera, his teeth appear solid, clean, and without dark spots or holes that would suggest cavities. Decay typically manifests as discolored (brown/black) areas, visible pits, or broken edges on teeth, often accompanied by pain (which of course we cannot see, but he has never indicated any issue). None of these symptoms are evident in Strahan’s case. In fact, his teeth are quite white and even-toned, which is the opposite of the discoloration one might see with tooth decay.
Dental professionals assess the health of teeth by looking at both the teeth and gums. Strahan’s gums look healthy pink and firm around his teeth in photos – not red or inflamed, which implies he maintains good oral hygiene. Healthy gums support healthy teeth and make decay less likely to progress unnoticed. Additionally, given his public persona, if his teeth were deteriorating, it would likely have been addressed by a dentist early on. There are no reports of him needing root canals, extractions, or emergency dental work that would indicate decay issues.
It’s also relevant that Strahan’s diet and lifestyle (at least publicly) don’t suggest high risk for tooth decay. As an athlete and health-conscious individual, he likely avoids excessive sugary snacks or sodas that contribute to cavities. In summary, there is no visible or reported evidence of any tooth decay in Michael Strahan – his teeth appear healthy and well-cared-for. Any suggestion of “decay” might stem from misinterpretation of photographs or simply be an unfounded concern.
Michael Strahan dental arch
Michael Strahan’s dental arch (the curved alignment of the teeth in the jaw) appears normal in shape and size, with one notable feature: a gap between his upper central incisors. The presence of that gap (diastema) can sometimes be related to the arch width relative to tooth size. In Strahan’s case, it’s possible that his upper jaw (maxilla) has a slightly wider arch or that his teeth are slightly smaller relative to the jaw, leaving extra space – both common reasons for a midline gap. However, aside from the gap, his dental arch doesn’t show crowding or misalignment. His upper teeth seem to follow a gentle U-shape curve that aligns well with his smile line.
From an orthodontic perspective, Strahan’s bite seems functional. When he smiles, you can see that his front teeth and canines are well positioned; they don’t appear to protrude excessively or be rotated. The gap itself is centered along the arch, meaning his left and right halves of the dental arch are symmetric. This suggests that his midline (the line between the two front teeth) coincides with the gap, not a shift of teeth – again a typical presentation of a genetic gap rather than one caused by a missing tooth. His lower dental arch isn’t as often seen, but there’s no public information about any issues there, so likely it’s also normal and matched to his upper arch (no major underbite or overbite issues reported).
It’s also worth noting that a well-formed arch with a gap can indicate that all teeth are present and appropriately sized except for that spacing. In children, gaps may close when adult teeth come in, but Strahan’s diastema persisted into adulthood, indicating his arch and teeth naturally settled that way. As a dentist, one would say his arch form is essentially ideal except for the cosmetic gap, which, in orthodontic terms, is a mild spacing issue rather than a structural arch problem.
Michael Strahan front teeth
Michael Strahan’s front teeth – particularly the upper central incisors – are the most famous part of his smile due to the gap between them. These two front teeth themselves are otherwise normal: they are similar in size, shape, and alignment to each other, with no chips or unusual contour. They stand straight and have a healthy off-white color, matching the rest of his teeth. The only distinguishing feature is that they are set slightly apart. This midline gap is called a diastema, and in Strahan’s case it’s a prominent space. Importantly, the gap is symmetrical – the space lies right at the center of his smile, giving a balanced appearance even with the separation.
Beyond the gap, Strahan’s front teeth do not show signs of damage or major dental work. For instance, he doesn’t have visible bonding or fillings on these teeth; the edges (biting surfaces) of his front teeth look intact and even. Some people with gaps might have slightly narrower front teeth contributing to the space, but Strahan’s central incisors are reasonably proportioned – not overly narrow. The gap size could be influenced by a thicker piece of gum tissue (labial frenum) or simply genetics, but he hasn’t publicly discussed the anatomical cause in detail. We know from his comments that he’s had the gap since childhood, so these front teeth likely grew in naturally with that spacing.
From a dental health standpoint, having a gap in the front doesn’t harm the teeth. Michael Strahan’s front teeth are healthy; the gap is purely an aesthetic characteristic and doesn’t indicate any pathology. He has kept these teeth free of cavities and stains. During the brief period in 2021 when he tried out a gap closure for a prank, a cosmetic cover made the two teeth touch, but he soon removed it and the front teeth returned to their familiar separated stance.
In short, Michael Strahan’s front teeth are strong and well-maintained, with the gap between them being a defining feature rather than a flaw. Their appearance aligns with the rest of his teeth – straight and clean – highlighting that the gap can exist even in an otherwise picture-perfect set of front teeth.
Michael Strahan teeth in his youth
In his youth, Michael Strahan already had a gap between his front teeth, suggesting his trademark smile took shape early in life. Childhood and teenage photos (from high school or college football days) show that once his adult teeth came in, the space was evident. Strahan himself has mentioned he’s had the gap “for almost 50 years”, meaning essentially since he was a young child. This indicates that his diastema was not due to any later dental injury or tooth loss, but rather a natural development as his jaw and teeth grew.
Typically, many children have gaps in early years that close as more teeth erupt. In Strahan’s case, the gap persisted into and through puberty, which often means the adult teeth were positioned with extra space (potentially due to genetics or a larger jaw structure). There’s no indication he ever wore braces in adolescence; had he undergone orthodontics then, the gap might have closed or reduced. Instead, he likely did not have braces, allowing his teeth to remain in their natural positions.
Another clue about his youth: He comes from an athletic family and spent part of his youth in Germany (his father was in the military). There are anecdotes that he got a late start in American football during high school, but nowhere is it mentioned that he had notable dental issues or interventions during that time. It appears his family and he did not view the gap as a problem requiring correction – aligning with the values he later expressed about self-acceptance.
So, the picture of Michael Strahan’s teeth in his youth is essentially a younger version of his current smile: two front teeth with a gap, surrounded by healthy neighboring teeth. This youthful gap-toothed grin eventually became his signature in adulthood, but it’s something he’s sported ever since he was a kid, well before fame.
Michael Strahan teeth before he became famous
Before Michael Strahan became famous – in his college and early NFL days – his teeth looked much the same as they do now, gap included. As a student-athlete at Texas Southern University and then a rookie for the New York Giants in the early 1990s, Strahan didn’t have access to celebrity cosmetic dentistry (and he likely wasn’t focused on that). Photographic evidence from those times shows the familiar gap-toothed smile. He did not suddenly get dental work upon becoming a professional player; in fact, he entered the NFL with that gap and kept it throughout his career.
During the time before widespread fame, Strahan’s teeth might not have been as uniformly white as they are now – which is normal for a young man not yet concerned with TV appearances. They may have had a natural ivory tone. Also, minor imperfections that almost everyone has (tiny chips or slight uneven edges) could have been present. But importantly, he clearly had no major orthodontic or cosmetic procedures done in his youth. No braces were used to straighten or close gaps, and no veneers or bonding were applied. If they had been, the gap would have diminished or disappeared, which it did not.
Once he did become a prominent NFL star and later a media personality, one could argue he might have done small enhancements like whitening. However, those would have happened after he gained fame, not before. Before fame, Strahan’s dental care was likely routine: regular dentist visits, addressing any cavities if they arose, etc., just like any other person. There are no stories of him having dental trauma or missing teeth before fame, so we know he didn’t have to replace or dramatically fix any teeth in that period.
In essence, Michael Strahan’s “before fame” teeth were his natural teeth with the gap front and center, and that natural smile actually accompanied him into fame. His rise to stardom did not prompt a dental makeover – a testament to how he valued authenticity from the beginning of his career.
Does Michael Strahan have veneers on his teeth?
No, Michael Strahan does not have veneers on his front teeth (or any visible teeth) as far as public information and observation indicate. Veneers are thin porcelain or composite shells bonded to the front of teeth to change their appearance – often used to close gaps, change shape, or whiten the smile. If Strahan had gotten veneers on his upper central incisors, the gap would have likely been closed or narrowed (since veneers could be made slightly wider to fill the space). However, his gap remains clearly visible and of the same size, which strongly suggests that he did not get veneers on those teeth.
Additionally, veneers typically give a very uniform, sometimes “too perfect” look to teeth. Strahan’s teeth, while nicely kept, have natural contours and variations that don’t look like a full set of cosmetic veneers. For example, his lateral incisors (the teeth next to the front two) are slightly smaller and set a bit back – a natural alignment. Veneers could have been used to bring those out or make them the same color as the fronts if there was any mismatch. But in photos, all his teeth match in color naturally, implying they are his original enamel rather than porcelain.
Strahan even joked in 2021 by temporarily masking the gap (with what might have been a temporary veneer-like appliance) for his prank, precisely because he does not actually have permanent veneers. He has explicitly stated he considered cosmetic fixes but ultimately did not do them, preferring his natural teeth. This includes not getting veneers. Of course, we can’t see his back teeth – it’s possible he might have a crown or veneer on a less visible tooth if it was ever damaged, but there’s no report of that.
From a dentist’s standpoint, the even translucency and shape of his front teeth on camera look like real teeth, not ceramic. Thus, it’s safe to conclude Michael Strahan does not have (and has not needed) porcelain veneers on his front teeth, and his smile’s character comes from the natural teeth he’s always had.
Did Michael Strahan get his teeth done?
“Getting his teeth done” implies undergoing cosmetic dental procedures – Michael Strahan has not done this in any significant way. He has openly talked about how he didn’t close the gap or alter his teeth, despite external pressure early in his career. In the world of entertainment, many people have their teeth whitened, straightened, or cosmetically enhanced; Strahan’s approach was largely to leave his teeth as-is, apart from standard care.
So, if the question means did he have cosmetic dentistry (like braces, bonding, veneers, implants): the answer is no, he did not. Specifically:
- No braces: He never wore braces in youth or adulthood to shift his teeth. His gap remained, which braces would have corrected if he had them.
- No bonding or crowns on the front teeth: There’s no sign of composite bonding (which could close a small gap by adding resin) on his incisors. The color and shape of the gap edges are natural, not built out with resin.
- No veneers (as discussed above): His natural gap and tooth shape indicate veneers were not placed.
- No implants (for the gap): Occasionally people might replace a tooth or use an implant if a tooth was missing causing a gap, but Strahan isn’t missing teeth – the gap is just spacing, not a lost tooth.
If the question is interpreted as did he have any dental treatments at all: like most people, he likely has had routine treatments (fillings if any cavities, wisdom teeth extraction perhaps, etc.). But those aren’t what people usually mean by “teeth done.” There is no news of Strahan undergoing a significant smile makeover, which is usually what prompts that question.
It’s worth noting that in 2021 when he posted the fake video of closing his gap, some fans assumed he “got his teeth done” then. But it was a temporary change and he quickly clarified it wasn’t real dental work. Ultimately, Michael Strahan’s smile today is not the result of cosmetic dental procedures – it’s the same smile he’s had naturally, maintained by good oral care and a bit of whitening.
Does Michael Strahan have gold teeth?
No, Michael Strahan does not have gold teeth. At no point in his public life has he been seen with a gold tooth or gold dental cap. Gold teeth could refer to either gold dental crowns or decorative gold “grills” that some celebrities wear. Strahan’s dental style has always been natural and understated (aside from the gap which is a natural feature). He has never sported a grill or any metallic adornment on his teeth in interviews, TV appearances, or events.
Throughout his NFL career and TV career, his smile has shown only white teeth. Even if he had a gold crown on a back molar for restorative purposes (which there’s no evidence of either), it would be hidden and not a part of his appearance. But given modern dentistry, even if he needed a crown, it could be tooth-colored ceramic; gold crowns are less common unless specifically chosen. Strahan has not indicated any preference or reason to have gold in his mouth.
Sometimes people wonder this about celebrities either due to rumors or mixing them up with others. In Strahan’s case, there is no anecdote or photo supporting the idea of gold dental work. He tends to keep his teeth looking naturally white – which is quite the opposite of a flashy gold-tooth look. As a professional media figure, he likely prefers the neutral, classic look of natural teeth.
In summary, Michael Strahan has no gold teeth – all his teeth are natural-colored (white) in appearance. His signature look is the gap, not any sort of gold dental jewelry or fillings.
Does Michael Strahan have silver teeth?
No, Michael Strahan does not have silver teeth or visible silver fillings. Silver teeth could imply either silver-colored fillings (amalgams) or silver caps, but none are apparent when he speaks or smiles. His teeth present as uniformly white. If he had large silver fillings on his back teeth, they wouldn’t be visible unless he opened wide, and even then, most of his dental work (if any) is likely modern and tooth-colored. There have been no reports of him having any notably silver dental work.
In the past, many people got “silver” amalgam fillings in molars. By the time Strahan was an adult with access to top dental care, white composite fillings were common. Given his attention to appearance, if he ever had cavities filled, he might have opted for white fillings for a seamless look. We can’t know for sure what’s on his back molars, but crucially, he certainly doesn’t have any silver on his front teeth or anywhere visible. His front teeth have no crowns or fillings that show – they’re intact enamel.
Also, he’s not known for any kind of grill or decorative metal on teeth (silver grills are a thing for some, but Strahan has never worn one publicly). So, the concept of “silver teeth” doesn’t apply to him. He’s far more often noted for the gap rather than anything like colored or metallic teeth.
Therefore, Michael Strahan’s teeth contain no silver that the public can observe. All indications point to natural, white teeth without any metal overlays. Any dental restorations he might have are kept out of sight and harmonized with his natural tooth color, as one would expect from a media professional.
Michael Strahan white teeth
Michael Strahan’s teeth are notably white, suggesting he maintains good oral hygiene and possibly uses whitening treatments. Over the years, fans have observed that his smile appears bright on camera, which could be due to professional dental cleanings or whitening procedures (common for TV personalities). Early in his career, his teeth were a normal white; in recent years on Good Morning America, they often look a shade or two whiter than average, indicating some whitening may have been done.
However, his teeth are not unnaturally bright (not the ultra-bleached look some pursue) – they still appear a natural white that suits his complexion. As a dentist evaluating his smile, one would say he’s likely had teeth whitening (bleaching) professionally or high-quality over-the-counter whitening strips/trays at times to remove stains from coffee/tea and keep his enamel shining. This is supported by how evenly white his teeth are despite being in his 50s, when teeth often start to yellow; his remain camera-ready.
It’s also important to note that “white” also implies healthy tooth enamel. His enamel seems to be in good condition – no extensive staining, no mottling, which again reflects regular care (brushing, possibly avoiding heavy smoking or excessive staining foods). He might also use veneers if he wanted perfect color, but as discussed, he hasn’t, so the whiteness is his actual teeth’s color.
In summary, Michael Strahan does indeed have white teeth, likely achieved through normal dental care and possibly whitening treatments. This contributes to his charismatic smile on TV. His teeth being white also dispels any notions of neglect; it shows he values keeping them clean and bright, even if he chose not to alter their natural spacing.
Michael Strahan central incisors
Michael Strahan’s central incisors are his two upper front teeth, and they are healthy, well-shaped teeth set apart by a gap. These incisors (often labeled teeth #8 and #9 in dental notation) define the focal point of his smile. They are relatively broad (as adult male central incisors typically are), with a shape that is rectangular with a rounded edge – normal for front teeth. They match each other in length and width quite well, indicating symmetry. Neither tooth appears to be twisted or significantly overlapped with adjacent teeth; they’re aligned in the dental arch properly.
The most distinctive aspect is the spacing between them. The gap (diastema) between his central incisors is a few millimeters wide, enough to be very noticeable. This gap has been present since his permanent incisors came in during childhood, not caused by any trauma or tooth loss. The edges of his central incisors that face each other (the mesial sides) are slightly angled towards each other but do not touch. If one examines his smiling photos closely, you can often see a bit of the pink gum (interdental papilla) peeking in that space, which means his gum tissue filled part of the gap naturally.
From a functional perspective, central incisors like his help cut food. A gap doesn’t hinder that much; some people with large gaps may have a slight lisp or air gap when speaking certain sounds, but Strahan is a professional speaker and has clear speech, indicating his gap doesn’t adversely affect his pronunciation significantly. In fact, he once humorously referred to those who share his feature as members of the “Gap Nation,” embracing it fully.
Dentally, one might ask if that gap is due to a large labial frenum (the tissue connecting lip to gum) – if so, sometimes the frenulum can cause a gap if it’s thick. It’s possible Strahan has this condition, though he hasn’t mentioned a frenectomy (surgical snip) which is sometimes done to close such gaps. He clearly opted not to modify anything there.
In summary, Michael Strahan’s central incisors are essentially normal front teeth in every way except for the gap between them. They have become symbolic in a way – representing confidence and individuality in his smile. They show that even textbook central incisors need not be touching to be part of a famous, endearing grin.
What happened to Michael Strahan teeth?
Nothing bad “happened” to Michael Strahan’s teeth – the only event was a playful prank that temporarily altered their appearance. People often ask this question around two contexts: (1) Was there an accident or dental issue? (2) Did he suddenly fix the gap? The answer to the first is no, he hasn’t suffered any notable dental trauma publicly. There’s no record of chipped or knocked-out teeth during his football days; he wore mouthguards as needed and seems to have all his natural teeth intact. The answer to the second is that in March 2021, he tricked the public into thinking he closed the gap, but it was a short-lived joke.
In that prank, Strahan posted a video of a cosmetic dentist making a mold and revealing him with a gapless smile, leading many to think “what happened to his gap?” For a couple of days, speculation ran wild that he had undergone a procedure. Then on April 1, 2021, he revealed it was an April Fools’ Day joke and that his gap was never permanently fixed. He said he did it to see people’s reactions and reaffirmed his decision to keep his signature look. In his own words, “the gap is here to stay… my mama likes it”.
Beyond that incident, Strahan’s teeth have been stable. There was a time in his twenties he contemplated cosmetic changes (mock-ups at a dentist were done), but ultimately nothing happened – he changed his mind and left his teeth as they were. So if the question implies “did something happen to cause a change?”, the answer is no change occurred in reality.
In essence, what “happened” is that Michael Strahan kept his natural teeth and gap, defying expectations that he might alter them. The only notable storyline was the brief gap-closure hoax, which itself underlined how attached people are to his natural smile. There have been no injuries, no loss of teeth, and no major dental procedures happening to his smile that the public isn’t aware of.
Did Michael Strahan wear braces?
No, Michael Strahan did not wear braces (at least not at any point that closed his gap or was publicly known). If he had worn braces in childhood or adolescence, it’s almost certain his orthodontist would have corrected the gap as a standard procedure, and he would not have the gap today. The fact that he still has a sizable gap strongly indicates he never underwent orthodontic treatment for it.
Furthermore, Strahan himself has discussed nearly fixing his teeth in his twenties but not going through with it; he made no mention of having had braces earlier. Typically, someone who had braces but the gap reopened would mention that history when talking about whether to fix it again. Since he talks about the pressure to be perfect and deciding not to close the gap, it sounds like he never had it closed in the first place – braces included. Also, wearing braces is something that often gets talked about (many celebrities share that they had braces as a kid or Invisalign later on), and there’s no record or interview note of him having done so.
From a timing perspective, if he were to have gotten braces, the likely time would have been in high school (late 1980s) or after retiring from the NFL (late 2000s) if he reconsidered. But in high school he was relatively unknown and apparently didn’t get them. After the NFL, he was already a TV personality and clearly chose not to, as evidenced by him going on-air with the gap and later pranking about closing it in 2021.
Additionally, his dental alignment aside from the gap is quite straight naturally, so he may not have had an orthodontic need severe enough to justify braces purely for the gap. Some people have braces specifically to close a gap, but Strahan chose another path.
In conclusion, all signs point to Michael Strahan never having worn braces. His tooth spacing and his own statements reinforce that his teeth have remained in their natural alignment throughout his life, without orthodontic intervention.
Are Michael Strahan teeth asymmetrical?
Michael Strahan’s teeth are generally symmetrical, apart from minor natural variations, and the gap between the front teeth is centrally placed which maintains overall symmetry. When asking about asymmetry, one might consider two things: the symmetry of individual teeth (e.g., left vs. right front tooth shape) and the symmetry of his smile midline. In Strahan’s case, his left and right central incisors are very similar in shape and size – no noticeable asymmetry there. His canine teeth and premolars on each side also look like mirror images when he grins. So, tooth-to-tooth, his dentition is quite balanced.
The gap is exactly in the middle of his smile, which actually preserves facial symmetry. Sometimes a gap can be off-center if one tooth drifts more than the other, but Strahan’s diastema is between the two central incisors evenly. As a result, his smile doesn’t look “off-kilter”; if you drew a line down the center of his face, that line would pass right through the gap, splitting his smile evenly. This means his midline is aligned with the gap, which is a symmetrical outcome for an otherwise asymmetrical feature (a space).
One could look for subtle asymmetries: perhaps one front tooth might be marginally more forward or one might have a slightly different contour at the corner – minor things that nearly every person has. In photos, if you scrutinize, one incisor might appear a tiny bit more prominent than the other from certain angles, but these differences are minimal and not noticeable unless one is measuring. He does not have one front tooth significantly larger or a crooked tooth on one side that isn’t on the other.
His lower teeth aren’t usually visible enough to comment on symmetry there, but there’s no report of any significant asymmetry like a midline shift or jaw misalignment. His bite seems even.
In summary, Michael Strahan’s teeth show normal symmetry. The gap is centered, and his left-right correspondence of tooth shape is good. Thus, aside from the presence of the gap (which is an even separation), there’s nothing visibly asymmetrical about his smile that stands out.
Did Michael Strahan have dental surgery?
There is no record or sign of Michael Strahan having had any major dental surgery. Dental surgery could refer to procedures like tooth extractions, implants, gum surgery, or jaw surgery. Strahan has not publicly had any of these done, at least not in a way that affected his appearance or was talked about in media.
Consider tooth extractions: if he had a significant tooth removed (like a front tooth or a premolar), it could change his smile or require a fake tooth replacement – nothing like that is evident. He does not have implants or bridges because he isn’t missing any visible teeth. Perhaps like many people he had wisdom teeth removed (a common minor surgery), but that would be behind the scenes and has no effect on how his smile looks or functions day-to-day, so it’s purely speculative. It’s not known, and it’s not typically newsworthy unless he mentioned it, which he hasn’t.
He also did not undergo gum surgery (such as a frenectomy to close his gap). We know this because the gap remains; if he had surgery to cut a thick gum frenum in the upper jaw (which is sometimes done to help close a diastema), usually one would follow up with braces or other treatment to actually bring the teeth together. He did not do that. His gumline in front doesn’t show any surgical scars or changes either.
Jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) is for severe bite misalignments – Strahan’s bite is fine and didn’t need correction, so that’s off the table.
Even the procedure done for his prank in 2021 was not a surgery; it was a cosmetic molding and temporary piece placement. There was no invasive work. He joked with the dentist but did not actually go under the knife or drill.
In conclusion, Michael Strahan has not had dental surgeries in the sense of altering his teeth or jaws. Any dental work he’s likely had has been routine and non-surgical (fillings, cleanings). He’s blessed with a naturally good set of teeth that haven’t needed surgical intervention and a personal choice to retain his gap, avoiding any surgical or extensive dental procedure to change it.
What dental procedures has Michael Strahan undergone?
Michael Strahan’s known dental procedures are mostly routine preventative and cosmetic maintenance, with no significant cosmetic overhauls. Here’s a breakdown of what he likely has (and has not) undergone:
- Regular Cleanings and Check-ups: As someone who appears on TV daily, he would maintain good oral health. This includes dental cleanings (prophylaxis) at least twice a year, check-ups, and necessary x-rays. These keep his teeth and gums healthy and camera-ready.
- Teeth Whitening: It’s very plausible he has done professional teeth whitening or used whitening products. His bright smile suggests some form of whitening beyond just good brushing. Whitening is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure many in the public eye use.
- Fillings: Over decades of life, it’s common to get a cavity or two. If Strahan had any, the cavities would be filled. He likely opts for tooth-colored composite fillings, which are invisible when he talks or laughs (he has no visible metal fillings). There’s no specific info on his fillings, which is actually normal – it means nothing out of the ordinary.
- Wisdom Teeth Removal: There’s no specific information on this, but many adults have their third molars removed as a preventive measure. If he had this done, it would have been in late teens or twenties, long before it would become any sort of news. It’s a safe assumption but not confirmed.
- Orthodontic Retainers: While he didn’t have braces to move teeth, if at any point a dentist gave him a retainer or appliance (perhaps he tried a removable aligner briefly), it’s not documented. The only appliance we know of is the temporary one for his gap joke.
- Temporary Cosmetic Procedure (April Fools’ 2021): This is noteworthy – he underwent a procedure to create a removable dental piece that closed his gap for a short time. Essentially, dentists took impressions of his teeth and fabricated either a set of veneers or a snap-on smile for the two front teeth to eliminate the gap. This was a procedure, but not a permanent one. It gave the appearance of a fixed gap without actual surgery or lasting alteration.
What Strahan has not undergone: braces, veneers, crowns on his front teeth, implants, or gum surgeries as discussed earlier. He also hasn’t needed any cosmetic recontouring (no tooth has been reshaped drastically, since his smile looks the same).
To summarize, Michael Strahan’s dental procedures consist of standard dental care and mild cosmetic enhancements (like whitening). The most unusual was the temporary gap closure for a prank, which was a reversible procedure. His case highlights that you can have a high-profile career and still stick mostly to basic dental work, preserving the unique aspects of your smile.
In summary, Michael Strahan’s teeth tell a story of natural individuality and good care. His iconic gap-toothed smile has remained unchanged by major cosmetic dentistry – a conscious choice he made to embrace who he is. Throughout his life, he’s maintained healthy, white teeth through routine dental care, all while turning what some might see as a “flaw” into a beloved trademark. His dental history shows that apart from regular cleanings and perhaps whitening, he avoided interventions like braces or veneers. The famous 2021 gap closure was just a temporary prank, reinforcing that Strahan’s gap is here to stay by his own preference. In the end, Michael Strahan’s smile is a testament to confidence in one’s natural features, backed by proper dental hygiene and health – a combination that has served him well in both sports and entertainment.