Did you know that a big investment you can make in your overall health and self-confidence is to make sure you have a healthy smile? June 15th is National Smile Power Day, and it’s a great time to become more aware of the many benefits of having a healthy, confident smile wherever you go!
The Psychology and Physiology of Smiling
Did you know that when you smile, it can trigger your autonomic nervous system to release endorphins into your blood? It triggers your body to release dopamine and serotonin, which act as natural pain relievers. Smiling also reduces your blood pressure levels (thank the happy hormone for that), so it has the power to relieve stress, help you relax, boost your immune system, and, when done habitually, even increase your odds of living longer!
In addition, it also helps whoever sees it to feel that same “happy hormone!” Smiling can make whoever you smile at feel better while also boosting their morale and helping them feel more confident. Smiling can be contagious, and at least half of the folks you smile at will reward you with one back. Who knew a simple smile which can produce anywhere and anytime was this powerful? We agree with the Buddhist author, Thich Nhat Hanh, that “Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.”
Did You Know?
- There are many different smiles, including the closed-lip smile, smirk smile, lop-sided smile, flirtatious smile, and open mouth smile.
- When it comes to learning facial expressions, a baby’s smile is one of the first ones they master!
- Smiling means the same thing anywhere you go in the world, which is why you often hear the familiar phrase, “When you smile, the world smiles with you!”
- Smiling people come across more confident and looking younger as the smiling facial muscles raise the face, making the cheeks, jowls, and neck look smoother.
- Women tend to smile more than 60 times a day while their male counterparts smile less than ten times a day!
- Most people think that having a bad-looking smile can harm their career goals.
Smile For Your Health and Success
No wonder smiling is such a good thing for your mental and physical well-being! It’s good for your social and career life, so smile more often. After all, it’s free so why not give the gift of a smile to others, brightening your day as well as theirs. This National Smile Power Day, why not share the hashtag #NationalSmilePowerDay in your online communications and tell a good joke or two. If you’re just not feeling the smile bug, try writing down some of the things you are grateful for onto some sticky notes and placing them around your home or office. Before you know it, you might catch yourself smiling!
Smile Boosting Tips
Your oral health is the first step to a more confident smile as it impacts your overall health. If not taken care of, you are at risk for high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and bruxism (where you grind your teeth while you sleep). You will also want to brush with a good toothbrush, floss daily and visit our team twice a year for cleanings. Limit sugary foods and beverages, especially tooth-staining drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine. Drink enough water throughout the day to protect your smile and follow a balanced, nutritious diet so your teeth and gums get the nutrients they need to thrive.
Our skilled team at Loudoun Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery has a reputation as a trusted oral surgery practice in Loudoun County, Virginia. Our services include the following:
- Wisdom teeth removal
- Dental implants
- Treatment of oral and facial injuries
- Corrective jaw surgery
- A variety of anesthetic options including IV sedation and general anesthesia
Our highly trained and board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons include Dr. Andrew E. Bluhm, Dr. Steve S. Dorsch and Dr. Gene A. “Jay” Vandervort. Each of our surgeons is trained to help our patients receive the best possible care for their unique needs. We welcome you to call our office at 703-771-1771 with your questions about wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, treating oral or facial injuries or corrective jaw surgery.