Your smile is often the first thing people notice about you and a smile can do much more than just make a first impression. It communicates your confidence, warmth, and even your trustworthiness. Here’s the fascinating science behind your smile, and how it can impact your relationships, career, and wellbeing.
Smiling shapes how others see you (and yes, there's research)
It’s not just common sense, there’s clear science behind the power of a smile. Research published in the journal Emotion found that smiling individuals are consistently judged as more approachable, friendly, and trustworthy. Even in professional environments, a genuine smile can actually make you appear more competent, confident, and effective.
In other words, flashing a smile doesn’t just brighten up your face, it can literally change how others perceive your capabilities and personality. It’s a communication superpower, as Rylan (our Head of Teeth) will gladly tell you.
Your smile can literally boost your mood
Ever heard the phrase “fake it till you make it”? It turns out smiling is a perfect example. Scientific studies, including a notable paper from the University of Kansas, have shown that smiling, even if it starts out forced, actually signals your brain to release feel-good neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins. These chemicals help reduce stress, lift your mood, and create a sense of happiness and wellbeing.
Rylan famously talks about how much confidence and positive energy he gained from improving his smile. While you might not need a "Hollywood smile," just caring thoughtfully for your teeth and embracing your unique grin can genuinely elevate your mood and wellbeing.
Confidence starts with comfort
Many people hold back their smiles because they’re self-conscious about their teeth. Perhaps your teeth aren’t perfectly straight, bright, or even, and that’s totally fine.
At Waken, we know that when your mouth feels clean, fresh, and cared for, it becomes easier to relax and smile naturally. Taking a thoughtful approach to oral care, like choosing gentle whitening toothpaste, alcohol-free mouthwash, and gentle, effective floss, can help build comfort and confidence.
Did you know? Interesting smile science facts
- Universal language: Smiling is universally understood across all cultures—no translation needed.
- Smile contagion: Studies have shown smiling is contagious. When you smile, it encourages others to do the same, creating a ripple of positivity.
- Longevity bonus: Research published in Psychological Science suggests that frequent smiling may even contribute to longer life spans, thanks to reduced stress and improved emotional resilience.
5 Thoughtful tips for a smile you’ll love
- Brush smarter, not harder: Brush gently twice daily for two minutes each time using fluoride toothpaste (like Waken’s thoughtfully formulated range).
- Make floss your new best friend: Floss gently every day. Your gums and dentist will thank you.
- Freshen up confidently: Choose alcohol-free mouthwash to keep breath fresh and teeth healthy without any unnecessary sting.
- Whiten gently: Consider gentle whitening products that use natural enzymes to lift stains safely, rather than aggressive chemicals that might harm enamel.
- Smile often: Practice smiling consciously, even when you're alone. It might feel silly, but it genuinely boosts mood, confidence, and wellbeing.
Own your smile, perfectly imperfect is perfectly fine
Ultimately, your smile doesn’t need to be magazine-cover perfect. It needs to be comfortable, authentic, and confident, just like you. At Waken, we celebrate every type of smile: imperfect, quirky, unique, or yes, even perfectly polished, like Rylan’s famous grin.
So, whether you're flashing a dazzling grin on television or just sharing a quiet smile at the bus stop, always remember your smile is powerful, so care for it thoughtfully and proudly.
Don’t just clean. Care.