As we take time to remember the life and leadership of Martin Luther King Jr., take a look in the mirror. What does your smile say about you? Does it inspire you to lead? A smile may be more powerful than you think.
A recent Penn State University study found that when you smile, you come across as more polite and likable. You also look more competent, according to the study.
In addition to the Penn State study, researchers at Uppsala University in Sweden discovered that it is difficult for people to look angry or frown when someone is smiling at them. Smiles are contagious – people naturally mimic them. So if you’re trying to influence people in business, politics or life, your smile can literally charm the socks off people.
You may not be as important a historical figure as Martin Luther King, but be a positive force in your own life. That starts with your smile. Take a look at these four easy tips to improve your smile or follow these simple rules to keep your smile white and dazzling:
- Practice good oral care every day by brushing and flossing regularly.
- Have your teeth been darkened by coffee, tea or age? You may want to consider bleaching. You can bleach your teeth in the dentist’s office or at home.
- Over-the-counter products, such as cleaning gels or strips can help, but they’re not as strong as what the dentist uses to bleach your teeth.
- Be sure to talk to your dentist before using any teeth-bleaching product.
