Does Smiling Have Health Benefits?

A beautiful smile can be a wonderful asset in the professional world and the social scene. People who smile often are seen as more friendly, confident, and approachable by others, which makes it easier for them to introduce themselves, win trust, close sales, and make friends. While many people can be shy about smiling because of visible flaws in their teeth, cosmetic dentistry can allow a patient to enjoy the benefits of having a beautiful white smile that they can be proud of. Here are some of the health benefits that come from smiling.

Smiling Can Help You Live Longer

Some studies have found that people who smile genuinely and intensely are more likely to have longer lives. While it’s not entirely clear why this is so, people who maintain a positive mood may simply have an easier time living a healthy lifestyle.

Even if a person doesn’t feel like it, smiling anyway can help reduce stress and elevate their mood. The neurological activity required for smiling can stimulate pathways in your brain associated with a happier emotional state. Smiling frequently, even if you don’t particularly want to, can help trick your brain into feeling happier.

Smiling Makes You More Attractive

It’s easier to approach someone who smiles frequently, so smiling frequently can make it a lot easier to get a date. Smiling conveys positive personality traits while also using muscles to naturally lift the face and make it appear younger. It also suggests that you’ve had some success lately to casual observers, and people often find success and confidence to be extremely attractive traits.

Smiling Spreads Easily

People respond to the emotions broadcasted by the people around them, and one person smiling can do a lot to improve the moods of everyone in the room. If someone sees another person smiling and subconsciously mimics them, the neurological process can trick their brain into feeling happier. Smiling can be contagious, so a single one can sometimes light up an entire room.

Don’t let cosmetic concerns keep you from sharing your smile with the world. Consulting with your dentist can determine if any cosmetic dental treatments are appropriate for you.

About the Author

Dr. Byron L. Reintjes earned his dental doctorate at the Case Western Reserve University School of Dentistry and completed a one-year hospital-based dental residency. He has served as a dentist for nearly thirty years and enjoys helping people have more reasons to smile. His office in Fresno, CA offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry. To learn more about what cosmetic dentistry can do for you, dial (559) 438-6684 or contact the office online.