What Smiles Do For Us

No matter what language barriers stand in between us, a smile is a universal sign of happiness and dependability in regards to non-verbal interaction.

According to a study performed in 2005, you might nearly say that receiving an authentic, wholehearted smile from someone is more beneficial than getting cash. In the words of Dr. David Lewis, the psychologist who examined these findings: “The powerful emotions triggered when someone important in our lives smiles at us and we smile back changes our brain chemistry. It creates what is termed a ‘halo’ effect that helps us remember other happy events more vividly, feel more optimistic, more positive, and more motivated.”

Also, endorphins and a stress-managing hormone called Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor are released during the physical act of smiling, giving them the power to decrease stress. Smiling additionally conveys sincerity, friendliness, and confidence. As a matter of fact, employers are most likely to employ those who show full, truthful smiles during the interview process than those whose smiles don’t convey sincerity.

But how do you know if a smile is sincere? Most people will notice the difference when they’re interacting with others. When a person forces a smile, there tends to be a lot of tension around the mouth and it generally doesn’t reach the person’s eyes. A sincere smile is called a Duchenne smile. A Duchenne smile is when our cheeks are forced upwards because of the lifting of the corners of our mouth, causing crow’s feet to form at the corners of our eyes.

It’s fairly fascinating, right? Something so simple as a smile can produce a meaningful impact on our everyday lives. However, for some, smiles don’t come easily. Those who struggle with dental complications, like tooth decay, missing teeth, or similar problems, may be somewhat guarded when it comes to their smiles. Due to this, these people run the risk of being misconstrued as unapproachable, incompetent, and mean even when they’re not.

Dr. Faist and his team want you to have the perfect smile! Schedule your next appointment online!