Did you know something as simple as smiling can positively affect your health? 

We often focus on self care, good hygiene, and eating healthy to better our health and wellness, and while these things are all great, it’s important to remember that a smile can play a big role, too.

The Science Behind a Smile

Smiling causes your brain to release neuropeptides, which are tiny molecules that help fight off stress. Other neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins come into play as well. 

Endorphins act as a pain reliever, while serotonin works as an antidepressant. 

There are even studies that suggest that a smile can influence our physical state by reducing our heart rate and helping us to recover from stress.

The effect of a big grin on our overall health definitely takes the cake when it comes to the best reasons to smile – other than just for the sake of being happy! 

And there are many other reasons why smiling should be something you do every day. 

10 Reasons to Smile Every Day

Behavior change expert Mark Stibich, provided this list of 10 reasons to smile everyday. 

1. Live longer
2. Relieve stress
3. Elevate your mood
4. Spread good cheer — smiling is contagious!
5. Boost the immune system
6. Lower blood pressure
7. Reduce pain
8. Look better — a bright smile makes you more attractive!
9. Smiling suggests success
10. Smile to stay positive

As you can see, there are so many reasons to smile and as Daniel Willey has said, “You don’t have to be happy to smile.” 

Taking Care of Your Smile

A healthy smile is a beautiful smile and in order to put your best smile forward, you have to take care of your teeth! 

Taking care of your smile starts with basic hygiene. 

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day – morning and night – is extremely important. On top of regular brushing, you should also be flossing as least once a day. 

You can also take care of your teeth by eating a balanced diet and avoiding too many sugary sweets. Despite what the name might suggest, a sweet tooth doesn’t mean you HAVE to eat sugar. 😉

And as always, remember to schedule regular checkups with your dentist every six months to ensure you’re getting an expert’s evaluation of your overall oral health. 

Here at Crown Dental, we want to see you smiling as much as possible! 

Contact us today and turn that frown upside down. 🙂