Smiling is often called the universal language because everyone does it and we all know what it means! Whether you’re laughing because someone told a funny joke, or excited because your team won the game, showing off your smile tells everyone how you feel. It’s great to be happy and laugh, but did you know that it is also good for your overall health? Continue reading to learn from your cosmetic dentist about the different benefits of smiling and how it can improve your life.
Relieves Stress
Smiling after doing something that makes you feel stressed can actually help you recover faster. This is because the muscle activity that’s involved with the act of smiling sends signals to the brain that you are safe. This influences the body’s natural response to stress. Ultimately, it can reduce your heartrate at a faster speed after a stressful experience or task.
Increase Confidence
You’ve heard the phrase “fake it till you make it,” right? Well when you are constantly showing off your best smile, you appear to be more confident. Confidence, or the illusion of confidence, is something that can help you in many different aspects of your life. Whether you’re going on a date, have a job interview, or just want to work your way up in your career, smiling more often is a great step to reach success.
Makes You Happier
Even if you aren’t necessarily happy, putting on a smile can trick your brain into thinking that you are. This is because the movement of the muscles you use when you smile stimulates the same area in the brain this is affected when you’re happy. Even if you are smiling purposefully without any reason to, it can still light up your mood.
Improves Your Health
Smiles and laugher both have the potential to boost your immune system. Studies have shown that laughter can increase the number of white blood cells in the body that are needed for fighting off infections and boosting immunity. If you have no other reason to smile, remember that doing so can make you healthier.
Younger Appearance
You may be worried about developing “laugh lines” when you get older from smiling too much, but actually, the act of smiling has shown to make people look for youthful than having a neutral expression or frown. Smiling more often can actually wind back the years.
If you aren’t happy with your smile, keep in mind that there are many popular cosmetic options out there to help you achieve your smile goals. Having a beautiful smile that you are proud to show off can improve your life in many different ways. Don’t be afraid to show it off!
About the Author
Dr. Nelson Y. Howard is a cosmetic dentist serving patients in the San Marcos, CA area. He earned his dental degree from the UCLA School of Dentistry and has gained over three decades of experience. He is an Accredited Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and is the President and Founder of the West Coast Society for Cosmetic Dentistry. For more information on how you can enhance your smile or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Howard, visit his website or call (760) 599-6559.