Strongsville Dentist, Dr. William Aerni:
How can your dental health affect your mental health? It is actually very simple. Generally when someone has teeth that are chipped, crooked, stained, or missing, they are self conscious about their appearance. Unhealthy teeth lead to fewer smiles which can affect your mood and the way other people see you, but your dentist can help you fix that.
Smiling is proven to lower stress which leads to a lower heart rate, and blood pressure. When you form your mouth into the shape of a smile, it changes the blood flow to the brain which automatically makes you feel happier. These reactions release endorphins and serotonin which are feel good hormones that fight off depression and anxiety. Who doesn’t want that?!?
Aside from being happy, people see someone who is smiling as confident, reliable, relaxed, sincere, and more attractive. It’s cheesy to say that smiles are contagious, but it is true. Humans subconsciously imitate those around them and are often affected by the moods of others. So, when in doubt, just smile! It’s amazing how a simple facial expression can have such an effect on your own happiness and the happiness of others. By taking care of your teeth, you are taking care of your emotions. Good dental health leads to good mental health.
Now that you know the connection between having healthy teeth and being a happier you, it is important to know how to take care of your smile. Preventative measures are most effective in maintaining healthy teeth. Brushing teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily is key and to keep enamel strong it is helpful to use a fluoride mouth wash often. If maintenance is necessary it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible to avoid any further problems. These are all steps to better your dental health, leaving you feeling more confident. With good dental health comes good mental health.
To find out more about keeping your smile healthy, call Dr. William Aerni, the Strongsville Dentist (440)238-6141 or visit our website AerniDental.com.