The benefits of cosmetic dentistry appear to be lost on Dale Lee, a prisoner from Dade City, Florida, who police officers have nicknamed Dracula because of his teeth.
Mr Lee was arrested for assault by officers investigating claims that he stabbed another man in the stomach with a knife.
One said: "It was hard to keep a straight face when the mug shot was taken. No-one has ever seen teeth that bad."
Aggravated battery in Florida is punishable by up to one year in prison. Mr Lee is being held at Land O’Lakes Detention Center until his court date is arranged, the Telegraph relayed.
According to the Consumer Guide to Cosmetic Dentistry, ten million Americans spend an estimated $2 billion (£1.2 billion) on teeth whitening products and associated services per year.
A recent survey by the American Dental Association (ADA) found that most people rank attractive smiles above all other physical features. The survey also revealed that Britons spent £350 million on cosmetic dentistry in 2007.