Smiling is my business, but I’m not the only one. Smiles have been the subject of many a painting, song lyric, book title, and more. Of course, it makes sense for a dentist to be concerned with smiles, but as much as I love helping people get the smile of their dreams through dentistry, I’m a big fan of smiles for another reason, as well. Turns out, smiling is good for your health. Here’s how smiling is one of the best things you can do for yourself:
- Smiling can temporarily lower your heart rate and blood pressure. When your stress levels peak, muster up the strength to share your biggest smile. Even fake smiles can do the trick.
- Smiling reduces stress levels. When you smile, your body releases stress-busting, mood-lifting endorphins. Reduced stress levels lead to improved immune function, so smiling can literally help you stay healthier.
- Smiling can be a natural pain killer. The same endorphins that improve our moods have been shown to reduce pain. Before you run for the ibuprofen, give smiling a try.
- Smiling can help you live longer. Because smiling is linked to lower stress levels and lower heart rates, it is estimated that “smiley people” live up to seven years longer than those who perpetually wear a frown.
- Smiling has countless social benefits. Smiling can promote trust, encourage empathy, and disarm even the grumpiest of people. It can make you appear self-confident and approachable and make others want to be around you. Those with a supportive social circle not only enjoy better quality of life, but increased longevity, as well.
If something about your teeth is keeping you from enjoying the health benefits of smiling, then let me help. From whitening stained teeth to providing natural-looking prosthetics for missing teeth, I can help you achieve your oral health goals and have the smile you’ve always wanted. Don’t keep that grin to yourself; call my office today to schedule an appointment. I can’t wait to see your smile!
