10 Benefits of Having a Great Smile

When it comes to making a good impression, the first thing that comes to mind is a great smile. It’s hard to feel cranky when you are with someone who is looking at you with a genuine and happy smile. Researchers have long known that smiling has quite a few benefits worth considering.  Here are 10 benefits of smiling that will make you rethink how often you smile each day:

1. Improved Mood

Smiling has been scientifically proven to contribute to a release of mood-enhancing chemicals, such as endorphins, in your brain which can increase feelings of contentedness and happiness.

2. Pain and Stress Relief

All those feel-good chemicals in your brain can help to relieve pain and stress. Similar to the level of pain relief that medications can give, smiling affects the dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin neurotransmitters which can lower your heart rate, blood pressure and lessen pain.

3. Stronger Immune System

The chemical reactions that make you feel relaxed and happy will also contribute to a healthier and stronger immune system!

4. Longer and Healthier Life

Those who smile more tend to live longer. In fact, one study found that, on average, people live seven years longer compared to those who don’t smile. This is most likely caused by the many other health benefits that smiling helps such as lowering blood pressure, heart rate, stress and anxiety. Smiling may even strengthen the immune system and overall health.

5. Makes You More Attractive

People smile as an affable gesture. Most of us attribute smiling to other likable characteristics such as friendliness, happiness, and approachability.  No matter where you are in the world or what type of personality or physical attributes you are attracted to, smiling is almost always rated as more attractive than not smiling.

6. Better First Impressions

When you realize that people are judging you more positively when you are smiling, it becomes obvious that people who smile tend to leave a better first impression when they meet others! Somebody’s first impression of you is what will stick in their mind long after that initial first meeting. It only makes sense that those who smile more will be projected that certain confidence and warmth that is a desirable attribute to have at work and at play.

7. Stronger Relationships

People usually respond positively to genuine and friendly people. By leaving a positive first impression and being perceived as more attractive and friendly, you will continue to attract people who want to be around you and your infectious smile.

8. Get Paid More

Smiling can make you more productive and get you recognized, especially at work. It’s no surprise that employees that smile more frequently tend to get more promotions, raises, and better tips!

9. Boost Your Self-Confidence

Smiling makes you feel good and makes others want to be around you. The way you view yourself and your smile will surely enhance your confidence!

10. Smiling is Contagious

No matter what your primary language maybe, a nice smile is the universal language anyone can translate. Smiling creates a simple way to connect with others regardless of age, gender, race/ethnicity, or primary language!

If there is something holding you back from showing off your best smile, it’s time to find an expert who can help. Dr. Maria Yazji Orthodontics has over 24 years of experience designing beautiful, confident smiles for patients in West Miami, Brickell, Weston, and surrounding cities in South Florida. She is specially trained to manage and guide facial development and tooth movement, correct overbites, crossbites, and other orthodontic issues.  Call Dr. Maria Yazji Orthodontics today to learn about all of the amazing orthodontic services they can provide to help you achieve your brightest smile!