Since October 4 is World Smile Day, countless orthodontic professionals are encouraging patients to adopt good dental hygiene habits and find ways to make others smile. With so much going on in the world today, showing kindness and providing assistance, whether through time or money, can make a big difference. Discover more about this celebratory day and what you can do to give back with a smile on your face.

What is World Smile Day?

World Smile Day is celebrated on October 4 to commemorate the original meaning behind the smiley face, which is to encourage kindness, generosity and put a smile on other’s faces.

This concept was started in 1963 by an artist in Worcester, MA, named Harvey Ball. Although companies have since commercialized the smiley face image, he decided to establish World Smile Day in 1999 so that people would spread joy and love to everyone.

Why is Smiling Important?

It is believed that smiling is contagious, and it releases endorphins, which are neurotransmitters that help you feel happy.

Although you may not realize that you do it multiple times each day, it can have a positive psychological impact on your overall health and well-being. Researchers have found that:

• You are often happier when you smile because the stress-causing hormones throughout your body decrease.
• You might live longer by smiling, especially if you are an optimist, not a pessimist.
• Smiling can help you make a good first impression when meeting others. You’ll appear more attractive and give the sense that you believe it’s important to take care of yourself.

What Can You Do to Ensure a Healthy Smile?

If you’re going to celebrate this special day by bringing out the smile in others, you’ll want to make sure that your teeth and gums are healthy and strong. While brushing twice a day for two minutes, flossing at least once a day and rinsing regularly are essential, you should also make sure to keep your six-month dental checkups and cleanings with your dentist.

But don’t forget about your regular follow-up appointments with your orthodontist. These visits ensure that your teeth are on the right track to achieving proper alignment.

Also, be mindful of what you eat, give up unhealthy habits like using your teeth as tools, and wear proper mouth protection while playing sports.

What Are Some Ideas to Help Others Smile?

There are countless ways to participate in World Smile Day, including:

• Donating school supplies to teachers or students in need
• Volunteering with a local organization that helps the homeless
• Donating gently used toys to nationwide organizations, like Toys for Tots
• Offering to sit by someone new at school to help them feel welcome and seen
• Paying it forward by picking up the tab for the person behind you in the drive-thru
• Delivering a meal to a neighbor who may be sick or needs help

While doing your part to show kindness this October 4, make sure your smile looks and feels its best so that you can make a powerful difference.

About the Practice
At Simply Orthodontics, our respected orthodontists remain committed to providing exceptional care while improving the lives of patients and residents living in Dayville and its surrounding area. Additionally, we are part of the Simply Doing Good network, which consists of dental professionals throughout New England communities who believe in spreading smiles. We do this through a classroom supplies drive, supporting local sports teams, and sponsoring more than 100 events and organizations. Contact us via the website or call (860) 774-2008 to learn how we can help you smile.