10 great benefits of smiling

Smile every day to improve your mood and health Many people think of smiling as a simple involuntary response to things that bring them joy. What does psychology say about smiling? Whether your smile is genuine or not, it can positively affect your body and mind in various ways — improving your health, your mood, and even the mood of those around you.

What can a smile mean?

Research shows that there are three main types of smiles:

• Reward: A smile that expresses approval, happiness, satisfaction, and other positive feelings.
• Affiliation: A smile that communicates good intentions, trustworthiness, belonging, empathy, and social connection.
• Dominance: A smile used to express superiority. It has been proven that this kind of smile raises cortisol (the stress hormone) levels in those it is directed toward.

Smiling can help you live longer

Perhaps the most compelling reason to smile is that it may help extend your life. One study found that genuine, intense smiles are associated with longer lifespans. Happy people appear to enjoy better health and longevity, though more research is needed to understand the reasons. Studies suggest that happiness can increase lifespan by years, meaning that maintaining a happy, positive attitude may be a key part of a healthy lifestyle. So, maintaining oral hygiene is essential for overall health. Let us tell you three simple rules that, if followed, will give you peace of mind.

1. All you need is floss, a toothbrush, and 5 minutes a day. Brushing and flossing daily removes bacteria and sugar from your mouth, helping to prevent tooth decay. This is the most essential step in oral hygiene.
2. It’s crucial to get a professional cleaning by a dentist. Esculap doctors clean areas you can’t reach (e.g., under the gums). Regular check-ups are more cost-effective in the long run than fixing advanced dental problems.
3. Many people only visit the dentist when something feels wrong. We recommend not delaying your visit — it may be too late. Regular visits are more comfortable and simple. Catching potential issues early can save you a lot of discomfort.

Dental clinic “Esculapi” is located in the city center, with two convenient locations. The first branch is at 1 Gamrekeli St., and the newer second branch is at 63 Lviv St. Make sure to contact us and book in advance at: 555 543 444. Consultations are free, and you will be treated by experienced and trustworthy doctors with 23 years of expertise.

Considering all this, remember that smiling reduces stress. It not only helps protect us from fatigue and overwhelm but also actively reduces stress levels.

Smiling boosts your mood!

Smiling can also help you feel happier. Next time you feel down, try smiling. There’s a good chance your mood will improve. The physical act of smiling activates pathways in your brain that affect your emotional state — meaning that by putting on a happy facial expression, you can “trick” your brain into a happier state. This effect works whether or not the smile is genuine. Even a simple smile can trigger the release of neuropeptides (such as prolactin, vasopressin, and oxytocin), which enhance neuronal communication. It also causes the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which help reduce anxiety and improve mood. Smiling can act as a natural antidepressant.

Smiling is contagious!

How many times have you heard that a smile can light up a room? While this is often said figuratively, there’s truth to it. Smiling not only lifts your own mood but can also brighten others’ moods. Studies show that smiling is actually contagious. Your brain automatically notices and interprets others’ facial expressions — and sometimes, you may even imitate them. This means you might see someone smile and subconsciously smile in return.

Smiling may lower blood pressure!

Smiling may have a beneficial effect on your blood pressure. Laughter appears to relax muscles and lower blood pressure after an initial increase in heart rate, breathing, and oxygen consumption. While smiling reduces heart rate during stress, studies also show it lowers blood pressure. One study found that laughter therapy could help patients reduce their need for heart medication. If you have a blood pressure monitor at home, you can test this idea yourself. Sit quietly and measure your pressure. Then smile for one minute and measure again — you may notice a difference.

Smiling strengthens the immune system!

Smiling can also improve your overall health by helping your immune system function more efficiently. It is believed that immune function improves when you smile because you’re more relaxed (thanks to activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, which regulates the release of gut hormones and antibodies that reduce inflammation and trigger immune responses).

Smiling reduces pain!

Studies have shown that smiling releases the body’s natural painkillers, known as endorphins, along with serotonin. Together, these brain chemicals make us feel good from head to toe. They not only lift your mood but also relax your body and reduce physical pain. Smiling is a natural form of “euphoria.”

Smiling signals success

Research shows that people who smile regularly appear more confident, are more likely to be promoted, and are approached more often. Try smiling during business meetings — you might find that people respond to you differently. As one wise person said, “A healthy mouth is the gateway to a healthy body” — and it’s true! Our mouths are one of the most important and frequently used parts of our body. They help us eat, speak, breathe, and even express emotions. That’s why it’s so important to take good care of your teeth and gums. Dental hygiene is a crucial aspect of maintaining overall health and wellbeing. If you are looking for dental services in Tbilisi, know that “Esculapi” is the right place where you can confidently trust dedicated professionals to take care of your smile!