When you think about the future, what is important to you?
Do you want to have a healthy, fit body? Maybe you dream about becoming a pro athlete, going to college, or inventing the next big video game! Or perhaps you simply want to be happy and be with your friends.
There are many ways to be successful. The easiest way is right under your nose:
sharing a healthy smile.
Here are 4 ways your smile shapes your future:
A perfect smile doesn’t guarantee perfect grades.
But, one thing is for sure: untreated cavities can make it hard for you to do well at school.
Many kids have had a cavity at some point. Even though cavities are common, they’re not normal.
Tooth decay is an infection caused by bacteria and should be taken seriously!
Your public health department can help you find a dentist.
Or visitAmericasToothFairy.org/resources for tools to find dental care providers near you.
Smiles impact how we feel about ourselves.
Kids whose cavities show when they smile or talk might be afraid to share their smile or speak in class. It’s never okay to tease or bully someone because they have a cavity or are missing a tooth. Doing so can make them feel bad about themselves well into adulthood.
Smiles impact how others see us.
When you see someone, what do you notice first? Chances are it’s their smile. Smiles help us make friends.
Take care of your teeth when you are young because those are the teeth you will have for the rest of your life.
Adults who don’t smile can be seen as insecure, unfriendly, and less intelligent. This can make it hard to form relationships and get a good-paying job.
Smiles impact our mental and physical health.
Feeling happy makes us smile, but did you know that the reverse is also true?
Smiling can actually make you feel happy. Brain imaging studies show that smiling (even a fake smile) causes the brain to react in a way that reduces stress and improves mood.
Poor oral health can set off a chain reaction of poor overall health!
The bacteria that cause gum disease can travel through the body and cause inflammation that makes depression and anxiety worse. It’s hard to smile when you’re depressed or anxious!
Not only that, but poor oral health can also lead to:
- High blood sugar levels in diabetics
- Infections in the sinuses and jaw
- A higher risk of heart disease and stroke
- Poor brain and gut health
- Low birth weight and pre-term delivery in pregnancy
The good news is...
Taking care of your teeth and gums every day can help you thrive at school, grow a healthier body and mind, help you feel better about yourself, and learn the discipline needed to succeed in other areas of your life!
Can you teach families about the importance of oral health?
Get the information contained here in documents suitable for elementary, middle, and high school STEM students, as well parents! Visit ShareYourSmileCampaign.org to access free education resources.