A lot of focus in the mental health research field has been on the effects of smiling. There is a growing body of evidence that supports the view that smiling unlocks incredible benefits for both the physical body and mental wellbeing. Researchers at the University of South Australia undertook one such study.
The study looked at the act of smiling and its role in promoting positivity. What was discovered was that facial muscular activity has the power to influence positive facial and body expressions.
Even forced smiling triggers the amygdala which is where the emotional centre of the brain is located, prompting the release of mood-enhancing neurotransmitters responsible for a positive emotional state of mind.
Research findings of this nature form powerful arguments for smiling to be included as part of a healthy lifestyle. The question then to be asked is, why aren’t we smiling more? Oral health surveys may hold the answer.
How do Australians feel about their smiles?
The basis for an attractive smile largely depends on a good dental appearance. Smile imperfections can make one feel very self-conscious about one’s smile and survey findings seem to corroborate this. In a survey carried out by Extra Oral Healthcare Program, researchers found that 27 per cent of respondents felt self-conscious about their smiles due to yellowing teeth. The state of their poor dental health was another reason cited by 21 per cent of those polled as their argument for not smiling.
To help the Australian nation smile more, the dental industry has made available a number of aesthetics-focused treatments such as veneers Wagga and teeth whitening to enhance dental appearance. A consultation with a qualified dental practitioner can help anyone looking for an improved smile find suitable treatment plans aimed at achieving smile-enhancing goals.
Why are cosmetic dental treatments a worthy investment? Consider for a moment the wealth of rewards to be gained by smiling an attractive smile. Considering all these benefits, it is easy to see how smiling can directly contribute to a good quality of life.
How smiling influences overall wellbeing
To have a good quality existence it pays to have a positive outlook on life. It is a well-established fact that the physical act of smiling prompts the brain to increase the production of brain chemicals that promote positive feelings. Production of dopamine, serotonin and endorphins – neurotransmitters that are responsible for feeling happy and positive – are encouraged when smile muscles are ‘switched on’.
There is much good news to celebrate smiling. One is the cause and effect of smiling. It is not only the wearer of a warm smile who benefits, but all those who witness it too. Seeing others smile prompts one to smile in return, thereby mirroring the effect of positivity.
To live a good quality of life, it helps to find useful ways to manage stress and pain. Feeling pain is debilitating and hinders normal activities like eating and sleeping. The effects of stress on mental and physical health are well documented too. The simple act of smiling has been proven to offer a good, healthy way to manage stress and pain.
Smiling is nature’s way of helping us ward off illness and disease. Those who are pleased with their smiles are more likely to want to protect their attractiveness by being proactive about their dental health.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
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