We at Apple Springs Family Dentistry are committed to oral health and the mouth’s full function. But did you know that smiling, which is another important mouth function, has benefits for your mind that chewing and talking don’t?
How Smiling Affects Your Brain
Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh once said, “Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile is the source of your joy.” The Zen master was right! When we smile, like when we exercise, our brains release endorphins and serotonin, which are natural pain relievers and natural antidepressants. This biochemical reaction helps relieve stress and reduce overall stress levels. There was some truth to the adage, “grin and bear it.” Who knew?
Smiling Is Contagious
Have you ever noticed yourself mimicking the facial expressions of those you’re with? Our brains see the expressions of others and want to understand what they mean, so we imitate them, smiling or frowning with our companions. Studies have found that smiling is contagious.
Smiling Is Attractive
We’re all looking for life hacks these days, and Lifehack.org recently covered the benefits of smiling (and laughing). Number six on their list was about the attractive expression of smiling. A smile is much more likely to draw people to you than to push them away.
What does a smile say to you? A study at MIT found that smiles generally communicate good intentions, likability, and empathy.
Access these psychological benefits of smiling by doing more of it:
- Smile and laugh more! If you’re feeling down, try faking a smile. Your brain doesn’t know the difference between a fake smile and a real one, but the effects will be the same. Plus, the more often you fake a smile, the more likely that smiling will become a habit.
- Watch funny TV shows and films! These will give you a reason to smile and help you to feel happier.
- Spend time with smiles! If you surround yourself with people who smile, it’ll rub off on you.
Now that you have all these bonus reasons to smile, make sure you keep up to date with your bi-yearly checkups at Apple Springs Family Dentistry. Dr. Tay will ensure you have a solid and healthy smile you can be proud of showing off. We offer a range of dental services, from professional whitening to restorative dentistry, to get your teeth looking and functioning at their best!
