4 Benefits of a Beautiful Smile

Did you know that children smile roughly 400 times per day? However, research shows that the average adult only smiles 20 times per day! While some attribute the desire for a perfect smile to vanity, having beautiful teeth and healthy gums can do more than just make you look good. Your dentist in Southlake is here to share four scientific benefits of smiling.

Smiling Releases Cortisol

Cortisol is a hormone that your body naturally produces to fuel your “fight or flight” response. Although it plays a crucial function in your built-in alarm system, high cortisol levels can lead to rapid weight gain, high blood pressure, and muscle weakness. Fortunately, smiling releases cortisol naturally and helps:

• Lower your blood pressure.
• Increase your endurance.
• Reduce your pain and stress.
• Strengthen your immune system.

People Who Smile Make a Better First Impression

Your smile plays a crucial role in the first impression you make. In fact, nearly 33% of Americans say the first thing they notice about someone’s face is their teeth! Plus, those who smile more were described with positive attributes, like friendly, courteous, and competent. On the other hand, those who frowned more were perceived as older and more overweight.

Smiling Makes Other People Feel Good

According to Forbes, the natural response to mirror other humans not only inspires action, but it also impacts their intentions and feelings. In other words, when people mimic the facial expressions of those around them, they create that emotional response in themselves. Therefore, by flashing your beautiful smile regularly, you start a ripple effect of positivity!

Smiling Boosts Your Job Performance

In addition to having a great first impression and making those around you feel good, smiling has also been found to boost your job performance. A recent study linked to decision-making found that the release of dopamine triggered by smiling makes teams more creative and efficient. Plus, this type of positive workspace has been found to invigorate people and inspire them to go above and beyond!

While a beautiful smile can do wonders for your confidence and appearance, it can also improve other aspects of your life. Therefore, it is important to look at the care of your smile as an investment in your mood, career, and overall health!

About the Author

After obtaining his undergraduate degree from Dallas Baptist College, Dr. J. Lee Pettigrew earned his D.D.S. from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Three decades later, Dr. Pettigrew continues to take over 100 hours of continuing education courses each year. He has also earned a Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry (which only 4% of general dentists accomplish!). If you would like to achieve your dream smile, don’t hesitate to visit his website or give him a call at 817-481-4888.