Making an appointment with a cosmetic dentist in Lakeview not only can enhance your smile, it can even improve your mood. That’s the verdict of groundbreaking psychological research, which suggests that the expression on your face has a major effect on your emotions. Believe it or not, the simple act of looking happier can have an uplifting effect on the way you feel inside.
The Link Between a Happy Face and a Happy Mood
Researchers conducted a study in which participants were asked to hold a pencil between their teeth, curling their lips upward in the process. To their surprise, the scientists found that this simple act had a mood-enhancing effect on the subjects. It seems that our brain takes its cue from our bodies. Looking happy can actually make us feel better.
In another study, researchers asked participants to look at a series of photographs and guess the age of the people in the pictures. The subjects who were smiling were invariably judged to be younger than they actually are, while those who were frowning looked older than their real age. Simply wearing a grin can take years off your appearance.
Why Aren’t More People Smiling?
It may be hard to believe that a physical action like smiling can have profound internal effects. But, in reality, this claim is grounded in solid scientific research. This being the case, why do so many of us go through life grimacing?
While the reasons vary, the answer often comes down to our dental health. Here are some factors that can rob you of your natural joy:
- Stained or discolored teeth. This problem can be caused by strongly colored beverages, side effects of certain antibiotics, tobacco use, or the effects of aging.
- Cracked, chipped, or uneven teeth. It’s hard to smile when your teeth make you self-conscious.
- Inflamed or infected gums. Periodontal disease not only leads to tooth loss, it can also have a devastating effect on the sufferer’s appearance and self-esteem.
- Fractured or missing teeth. Having gaps in your smile can make you reluctant to let your face shine.
Your Cosmetic Dentist Can Turn that Frown Upside Down
Whatever your reason for frowning, your cosmetic dentist is part of the solution. Here are some treatment options to consider:
- Teeth whitening. Prescription formulas are not only safe, they’re far more effective than over-the-counter kits.
- Think of this option as a facelift for your teeth. Veneers can restore your smile to its original luster while giving your teeth a beautiful, harmonious appearance.
- A crown is a restoration that sits atop the base of a distressed tooth, protecting it from further harm and making it look better than new.
- A dental bridge not only enhances your smile, it can restore the functionality that’s lost when a tooth goes missing.
- Modern dentures are not only more comfortable than ever before, they’re also a great way to improve your life and health overall.
- Dental implants can restore either one tooth at a time or as many as six teeth at once, depending on your personal goals and the state of your oral health. Implants aren’t the best solution for everyone. Your dentist can give you more information on this important topic.
Life is too short to go through your days with a frown on your face. Talk to your dentist about the restoration solutions mentioned in this post. What you learn will give you lots of reason to smile.
About the Author
Dr. Vincenzo Artino is a skilled dentist with special expertise in orthodontics and cosmetic procedures. He earned his DDS degree from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. You can contact his office online or by calling (303) 238-2800.