Johnny Depp’s total teeth transformation in unbelievable then and now photos

Johnny’s smile has evolved significantly over the years. He showcased his natural pearly whites in a 1990 headshot – the same year he starred opposite Winona Ryder in Tim Burton’s Edward Scissorhands, which was followed by a string of big-screen hits including What’s Eating Gilbert Grape (1993), Benny & Joon (1993), and Sleepy Hollow (1999).

Over thirty years ago, Johnny insisted that he would never have a “perfect” set of gnashers.

Opening up about the dental work he had undergone, the actor admitted he was “proud” of a specific “rotten” tooth. 

 “I’ve got loads of cavities,” he told Premier magazine in 1995. “I had a root canal done eight years ago that’s unfinished. It’s like a rotten little stub… But I like it. I’m proud of these.”

“When I see people with perfect teeth, it drives me up the wall,” he continued. “I’d rather swallow a tick than have that!”

Johnny is no stranger to undergoing dramatic physical transformation for his roles, and his portrayal of rum-loving pirate Captain Jack Sparrow in Pirates of the Caribbean was no exception.

To achieve an authentic look, Johnny had gold tooth caps installed. At the time, Disney executives weren’t too enthusiastic about it. 

Johnny told the LA Times in 2003: “Jerry [Bruckheimer, producer] was slightly uncomfortable and the Disney executives weren’t exactly enthusiastic about it… I said, ‘Look, these are the choices I made. You know my work. So either trust me or give me the boot.’ And luckily, they didn’t.”

In 2023, Johnny returned to the big screen at the Cannes Film Festival for the premiere of Jeanne du Barry. While the film earned a seven-minute standing ovation, the actor’s smile also drew attention, sparking comments from fans online. Commenting on his discoloured teeth, one person wrote: “Johnny Depp’s teeth are crying out for help.”

The actor has been open about his past struggles with substance and alcohol abuse, as well as his history as a heavy smoker, all of which can significantly impact dental health.

Despite previously insisting he had no desire for “perfect teeth,” Johnny appears to have had work done to transform his smile. In video footage filmed while vacationing in the Bahamas in 2024, Johnny unveiled a new, polished set of teeth while interacting with guests at a beachside bar in Exuma.