A Guide to Understanding What Makes You Grin

It’s pretty reasonable to assume there is a scientific explanation for most everything in the world and it’s no different for smiling! It’s not something we think about often. It’s a visceral reaction that at its most effective times requires little to no thought. It’s not a learned behavior and is intrinsically one of the first expressions we have as newborns, sometimes within the first two hours of birth.

Would it be surprising to know the average adult smiles around 40 times a day? That’s good! This means they’re authentic, and an authentic smile has been scientifically proven to reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure and your heart rate; it truly is the best medicine. And guess what? Even a “fake” smile has been proven to improve your mood; it tricks your brain into thinking you are indeed happy. The better you feel the better the people around you will feel. Smiles are contagious, so spread the love! (more…)

Ready or not, turkey time is just around the corner. Days and nights will be filled with families gathered ‘round enjoying cranberries, mashed potatoes, green beans, casseroles, dressing, buttered rolls, pumpkin pie and most importantly, turkey. So as you’re giving thanks for all that you’ve been given this year, here are a few things to remember before you dig in!

#1 Turkey is Good for Your Teeth

The dental benefits of turkey can be found in the fact that it is a great source of protein. Protein contains a small amount of phosphorus, which is great for your teeth when it’s combined with calcium and vitamin D. This mixture is perfect for keeping your teeth nice and strong! So the next time you bite into a drumstick or turkey sandwich, remember that you’re doing it for your teeth. (Wink, wink.) (more…)

Some of the foods are delicious and some of them are not so tasty, but here’s a list of food and drinks that keep your oral health in check.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is excellent for your oral health because of its sticky nature. By taking a tablespoon of coconut oil and swishing it around for mouth for 15-20 minutes you are collecting all of the bacteria in your mouth that otherwise would stay there after a brisk brushing. The oil helps fight against biofilm which can collect on your teeth and cause tooth decay or gum disease.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is great for fighting internal membrane inflammation. If you are suffering from irritated gums or swollen lining on the inside of your mouth, rubbing eucalyptus on them will help ease the swelling and return your soft tissue back to normal. Additionally, eucalyptus strengthens teeth in their sockets and helps fight against plaque and tartar build up. (more…)