Are you unhappy with the way your teeth look? If so, you may be hesitant to show them when posing for a photo or just hanging out with friends or family. With cosmetic dentistry, you’re able to fix any imperfections and achieve the appearance you’ve always wanted. While this obviously boosts self-esteem, there are also health benefits of smiling. Continue reading to discover 5 ways displaying your ivories can boost your state of wellness, and find out why it’s advantageous to visit a cosmetic dentist!
What is Health?
When many people think of health, it may be from the standpoint of being disease free and physically functional. A more comprehensive definition is, “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being.” From this more holistic perspective, the connection between smiling and total wellness should be explored.
#1 – Projecting Confidence
Smiling often projects confidence and sends a message to the world that you’re pleasant and personable. These traits can serve as magnets, attracting positive energy in your direction and fostering healthy social interactions.
#2 – Increased State of Happiness
The movement of the facial muscles into a smile stimulates the pleasure centers of the brain. This triggers the production of endorphins, which could be considered as “happy” hormones. When endorphins are higher, the body is less likely to experience damaging inflammation and is more apt to heal from ailments.
#3 – Stress Recovery
In stressful situations, it’s normal for the heart rate to increase. A 2013 article in the Wall Street Journal referenced a study of 170 participants. It found that people who smiled after performing a particularly stressful task experienced a faster reduction in their heart rate afterwards. This is partly attributed to the muscles in the face involved in smiling sending a “safety” message to the brain that resonates throughout the body.
#4 – Age Reversal
Studies show that smiling more often helps to reduce facial wrinkles. Maintaining a more youthful appearance can impact the way people interact with you and further boost your confidence. Feeling better about yourself can then trigger the production of health-enhancing hormones like endorphins, serotonin, oxytocin and dopamine.
#5 – Immune System Fortification
According to research conducted by the Loma Linda University School of Medicine’s Department of Clinical Immunology, laughter can help boost your immune system. They found an increased number of white blood cells (the kind that fight infection) in the body during bouts of laughter. Thus, it was summarized that exercising the smile muscles often can have an indirect effect on health.
Although some connections between smiling and improved wellness have been established, you may still feel uncomfortable with showing your teeth because of their aesthetic flaws. With help from a local cosmetic dentist, you can overcome any hesitance so you can proudly display your smile and enjoy the residual health benefits!
About the Author
Dr. Bill Greenberg earned his dental degree from Tufts University. Throughout his 40+ year career, he has continued to expand his knowledge by taking hours of continuing education, which includes advanced training in cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Greenberg creates beautiful and healthy smiles at Mt. Holly Family Dentistry, and he can be reached for more information through his website.