“If you see a friend without a smile, give him one of yours.” – Proverb
Americans spend trillions of dollars every year trying to boost our health. But did you know that you can boost your health without spending a penny? One of the easiest and cheapest ways is simple…SMILE!
A smile is the most universally recognized non-verbal sign of happiness, but smiles do a lot more than simply let the world know that you are happy. Smiling improves your health, stress level, and attractiveness. Smiling changes your mood, releases endorphins, and boosts your immune system. A smiling face – simple and sincere – tells others that you are an outgoing and intelligent person worth getting to know.
Here are a few interesting facts you may not know about smiling:
A Smile Makes You Look Successful
“A smile conveys confidence and professionalism,” says Lily T. Garcia, DDS, a past president of the American College of Prosthodontists. People who project a positive outlook are generally more open and flexible. They tend to cope better with challenges than people who are withdrawn and unsmiling. Smiling people appear more confident, are more likely to be promoted, and are more readily approached with business ideas and offered advancements. Put on a smile at meetings and appointments and people will react to you differently.
Smiling Changes Our Mood, So Turn That Frown Upside Down!
Want to be happy? Just smile. Believe it or not, forcing yourself to smile can actually make you happier.
Smiling Makes Us More Attractive
We are naturally drawn to people who smile. There is an attraction factor. We want to know a smiling person, but frowns and scowls push people away (avoid these smile aging habits to keep your smile looking great).
Smiling Is Contagious
Smiling does a lot for us, but what about what it does for those around us? Well, smiling is contagious! Studies have shown that smiling is infectious, (around 50% of people smile back). Smiling at someone else will bring a smile to their face as well as all the added health benefits.
Smiling Relieves Stress
Stress can really show up in our faces. Smiling helps to prevent us from looking tired, worn down, and overwhelmed. When you are stressed, take time to put on a smile. The stress should be reduced and you’ll be better able to take action.
Smiling Boosts Your Immune System
Smiling helps the immune system to work better. When you smile, immune function improves, possibly because you are more relaxed. Smiling can help prevent the flu and colds – important during cold and flu season!
Smiling Makes You Look Younger
The muscles used to smile lift the face, making you appear younger. A research study conducted at the Max Planck Institute in Berlin suggests that facial expressions have a big impact on how old we look, with smiles making for a more youthful appearance.
Smile Anxiety
Chipped or missing teeth, fillings, or discolored teeth are unveiled when your lips part to smile –so some people simply avoid it. If you find yourself wanting to cover up your smile, you could be holding yourself back in more ways than you realize. Life is much more challenging for people who are so self-conscious about their teeth that they don’t want to smile. Make a date with your dentist to talk about your concerns and potential corrections. Many dental problems can be fixed.
We love giving people reasons to smile, and our goal is to help our patients design how they want to FACE the world, be seen by others, and have a healthy, active lifestyle. Contact us today to see how we can help you face the world with confidence.
Remember that while keeping your smile healthy is vital, be sure to share your smile with others!
