May is Mental Health Awareness Month

May 15, 2024

To Dental Providers and Innovators:

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s not forget about how much oral health impacts mental health!

> Longitudinal studies have shown that smiles could predict success and well being throughout life. 

> Smiling has been linked to longevity of life.

> Some studies show that it’s very difficult to frown if you look at someone smiling, and other studies show that you are considered more likable, competent and courteous when you smile.

> Smiling has been shown to decrease stress hormones like dopamine, cortisol and adrenaline, and increase “happy” hormones like endorphins.

So, what happens to those who don’t smile because they are too embarrassed about the state of their oral health? Over the look of their smile? Dental clinicians and dental space innovators: you play a vital role in this aspect of mental health - the smile.

The work you do is so important to patient care with a goal of building healthier, confident smiles. So, encourage your patients to implement self-care and prioritize their smiles. 

If your week has started off less than stellar, remember you are a part of the mental health awareness movement. 

I think that’s worth smiling about.