Good Oral Health Can Make You Happy and Smile More

Looking for a little inspiration to keep your six-month check-up and cleaning, follow through on brushing and flossing, and practice better oral health? Think about this: Maintaining good oral health can make you happier and contribute positively to your mental health. Furthermore, having healthier teeth and gums will cause you to smile more. Smiling by itself affects your overall health and quality of life in many ways.

Research Evidence for Oral Health and Happiness

Research supports the link between dental health and mental well-being. A study published in the Journal of Dentistry found that older adults with better oral health had a lower risk of becoming unhappy, even after 3 years of checkups.

Another study found that not only did good dental health help increase happiness, but healthy gums did as well. By minimizing the risk of periodontal disease and its impact on our gums, we have more motivation to smile and display more positive emotions.

Here are other ways dental health contributes to happiness and boosts mood:

Confidence and Self-Esteem

A healthy smile affects how we see ourselves and project our self-image to the world. Even if you already have discoloration or missing teeth, cosmetic procedures that restore your smile can give your confidence a much-needed boost.

Gum Disease and Cognitive Functioning

There is a connection between periodontitis and the increased risk of cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Taking care of your gums can go far in preserving your brain health.

Smiling and Feel-Good Hormones

When you know you have beautiful teeth, you want to smile more. Smiling triggers the production of serotonin and endorphins, hormones that make us feel good and contribute to a greater sense of well-being.

Regular Dental Checkups and Stress

Going to the dentist regularly can take the uncertainty out of what happens during an exam and routine cleanings. Twice-yearly preventive care can also help you avoid the stress associated with corrective treatments like root canals or dental implants. Contact us today at our Blue Ash office to set up your next appointment or get answers to your questions.

Brush Often and Be Happier

Great dental health impacts not only your overall health, but your quality of life. Taking care of your teeth is actually taking care of yourself. In your pursuit of happiness, let the professionals at Beckham Square Family Dental be a part of your psychological self-care!