A smile is worth a thousand words… yawn!.. But did you know that a healthy smile could also be worth a thousand bucks? What may sound too good to be true, is actually backed up by research. The data tells us that there is a surprising correlation between a healthy smile and “success”, both financially and in terms of a career. In this article, we will explore the ways in which good oral hygiene gives you a powerful edge in your professional life and how it can help you achieve anything.
The Allure Of A Bright, White Smile
When you notice someone you are talking with has a pearly white smile, do you not find yourself looking at them a lot? Well, turns out there is actually a lot more to it than simply being impressed by that person’s self-care routine and disposable income, it is instinct.
Our ancestors were hard coded to socialize with others who have clean teeth, because it is a clear sign that someone is not sickly and able to pass on diseases, despite the lack of mass-produced toothbrushes, there were still basic methods that our ancestors used to keep their teeth in good shape. It is no different from today when a set of dazzling teeth is still a major plus when socializing.
In fact, a study published by Abeer Khalid and Carlos Quiñonez in Sociology of Health & Illness shows that our dental aesthetic tendencies are guided by the interplay of biology, culture and society. Though it is also worth pointing out that this paper goes on to warn about the health issues that can arise from improper whitening treatments. So it is important to go to a qualified dentist.
Gums, The Subtle Sign Of Health
When you think of oral health, having clean teeth comes to mind, but do not underestimate the role that gums play in displaying a glowing smile. Gums are much more than just a squidgy pink frame for your gnashers, they also provide valuable insight into your overall health.
Do not get us wrong, people judging you by your gums is not a hard instinctive or conscious process (like the teeth!), though it is something people will subconsciously take into consideration. This association is likely formed through cultural and societal influences. People seem to associate good gums with attractiveness because they have learned that this is typically the sign of a healthy person, rather than because of an inherent instinct.
Gums that are firm, and do not bleed when brushed or flossed are signs of good health. If your gums are red or bleeding when brushed, it can be a sign of gum disease such as gingivitis, but sometimes this can even indicate more severe issues such as heart disease or cancer. If your gums are bleeding, swollen or become red when brushing, make sure to visit a qualified dentist or doctor for an expert opinion. People often forget to visit a dental hygienist, who are specialists in keeping gums nice and healthy.
The Social Consequences Of Neglecting Your Oral Health
Let us be real for a moment, the fact is that no one wants to hang out with someone who has gnarly breath or unsightly teeth. This obviously goes for social situations such as dinners and dates, but this should also be taken into consideration for professional settings too. Colleagues and higher up’s are much more likely to have a positive perception of you if you take care of your breath and the appearance of your teeth.
Just imagine trying to pitch a sale to a client at a meeting, only to have your breath cause a negative distraction, it is something that can easily be avoided yet has significant consequences. Whilst this may seem a little shallow to some, the fact is that ignoring your oral health can also lead to some pretty serious issues for your overall health. It is an instinct for a reason.
This being said, we appreciate that improving the appearance of teeth is not affordable for all, so we would always encourage you to prioritise dentist visits that focus on function before this. Things like fillings and cleaning, to ensure your mouth is nice and healthy. Getting your teeth whitened or straightened is often an extra that not all can afford.
Conclusion, Health Smiles, And Career Progression
So, what have we learned? Well, most importantly, aesthetics are not as important as overall health. The teeth and gums are a good indicator of your health, so keep an eye on them and visit a professional dentist or doctor if you have any issues. We also learned how the appearance of your teeth and smile are important factors when others view you socially, but also professionally.
Having a healthy smile will give you more confidence, and therefore you will perform better in all areas of life. Especially in your career. Don’t neglect your oral health. Invest in a good oral hygiene routine, and visit your dentist regularly to keep your teeth and gums in top shape. This will benefit you in so many ways.
