Yes, Smiling is Good for Your Health — Here’s Why

As your dentists, we love your smile! Our goal is great dental care — and that is something to smile about. But did you know that smiling is actually good for you? There’s a strong link between good health, longevity, and smiling. Studies have shown that the simple act of smiling can have both short and long-term benefits on people’s health and wellbeing.

Here are 5 reasons why you should smile — and not just because your dentist told you to.

Smiling is Beautiful

We’re naturally drawn to people who smile. It’s warm, friendly, and engaging. In fact, there is a real physical attraction factor linked to the act of smiling. Smiling’s not just for photos. It can improve your daily interactions, even win you dates.

Smiling is a Stress Reliever

Life’s stressful stuff, especially these days. But smiling can actually activate your stress response. People who laugh or smile in stressful situations generally have lower heart rates compared to those who aren’t smiling.

Smiling Lowers Pain Levels

Yes, smiling helps you feel better. In fact, it can lower your body’s aches and pains. Laughter and smiling trigger endorphins — the body’s natural feel-good chemical. Laugh plenty throughout the day. Tell a joke. Kid around. Laughter and smiling are natural pain relievers that are good for your body.

Smiling Boosts Your Immune System

Smiling is good for your health, literally. In fact, the act of smiling can actually boost your immune system and help your body fight off disease. A WebMD study states that laughter, which often starts with a smile, increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, which improves your resistance to illnesses. Smiling helps you to relax, which is good for your body’s immunity because you naturally release certain neurotransmitters.

Smiling Lowers Your Blood Pressure

Smiling is actually good for your heart. In fact, when you smile there is a measurable reduction in your blood pressure. Laughter leads to an immediate increase in heart rate and oxygen consumption, followed by a period of muscle relaxation, decreased heart rate and lower blood pressure, according to an article published by the College of Family Musicians. Smiling actively lowers your risk of heart disease.