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Writer's pictureMark Roberts

Smile, and the World Smiles with You

One of the most popular songs of the 20th Century was written and recorded originally in 1928. "When You're Smilin'" has been sung by Louis Armstrong, Frank Sinatra, Doris Day, Judy Garland and Bing Crosby, Billie Holiday, Michael Buble, and over two dozen other vocalists and musicians since then. Here are the lyrics to the first stanza:


"When you're smilin', when you're smilin'

The whole world smiles with you

When you're laughin', when you're laughin'

The sun comes shinin' through."


There is an element of truth to this tune. Smiling is contagious. It activates the release of neuropeptides and neurotransmitters (dopamine, serotonin and endorphins), which decrease stress levels, relax the body, lowers your heart rate and blood pressure, and serves as an antidepressant and mood lifter. It makes you feel good. When you feel good, others around catch that spirit. Smiles that engage your eye and mouth muscles (called Duchenne smiles) have the most positive impact on your outlook and physical health. These types of smiles can help ease tension, relieve anxiety, lower your heart rate, and actually make you feel happy.


Smiles are a foundational part of how you interact with other human beings. Whether it’s for family photos, travel selfies, a job interview, or a date, your smiles are such an important part of how we show ourselves to the world. Research shows that there is a strong link between smiling and good health and longevity. It just goes to show the importance of smiling. Did you know that people can perceive a smile from 300 feet away? That's the length of a football field! That makes it the most recognizable human expression.


Here are some additional facts about smiling:


Smiling Makes You Attractive. Humans are naturally attracted to people who smile. Use the attraction power of your smile to draw people in and engage them in conversation or opinion.


Smiling Elevates Your Mood. The physical act of smiling activates neural messaging in your brain. It’s almost like smiling works as a natural antidepressant.


Smiling Boosts Your Immune System. The act of smiling can boost your health because it helps the immune system to function more effectively, and makes you more relaxed thanks to the release of certain neurotransmitters.


Smiling Is Contagious. Smiling has the power to change your mood and the moods of others. Humans are hardwired to mimic the expressions of others. So it is scientifically proven that smiles are contagious.


One of the most powerful things the world shares is the universal smile. A smile can cut through all barriers. It knows no prejudice. No matter who or where you are, your smile can always be understood. A smile represents something bigger, and it represents goodwill, affection and openness. It wordlessly communicates happiness and acceptance. Your smile connects and encompasses those with whom you come in contact.


To have a great smile is important. One of the best ways to maintain it is to have a good dental plan. It's critical for your smile and for your overall health, both from physical and mental perspectives. If you are looking for an affordable dental plan for your family, or if you are an employer and need to provide good dental benefits for your employees, then contact me to have a conversation or get a quote on what's best for you. More information about some dental plans for consideration on my website: https://www.careingdentalgroup.com/choose-your-dental-plan.


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