Children smile up to 400 times a day – and their smiles are powerful! A study called the Smile Back Project by the University of Cambridge revealed that adults smile 13 per cent more frequently when with children than when in the presence of adults or being alone.
It also shows how the condition of our teeth can make a big difference to how often we smile, says the dental team at Evesham Dental Health Team in Evesham. The study found a significant correlation between healthy teeth and higher intensity of smiling; study participants who reported better oral health also reported higher levels of self-esteem and life satisfaction.
A smile is one of the most powerful things in the world. It is universally understood and contagious – a smile from one person generates the smile of another, revealed the research.
An important part of looking after our mouths is the bit we do at home. We often remind our patients from across Worcestershire, Gloucestershire and Warwickshire that their teeth will last a lifetime if looked after properly, so teaching children the right brushing techniques is vital.
The oral health message we teach our patients is:
- Brush twice a day for 2 minutes using a fluoride toothpaste*
- Only use a pea-sized blob of toothpaste on your brush
- Spit don’t rinse after brushing (as rinsing washes away the fluoride)
- Make sure you watch children brush their teeth to check they are doing it right
- Change your toothbrush every 3 months
- Visit your dentist regularly so that your teeth remain healthy and strong for life
- Keep sugary food and drinks to mealtimes only
* Please check that your child’s toothpaste contains between 1,350 and 1,500ppm of fluoride.
Regular dental and hygiene visits will help ensure you and your children’s smiles stay healthy for life, so don’t put off your next appointment, contact Evesham Dental Health Team today to book an appointment.
