Practice different degrees of openness to see which smile looks best on you. It’s your smile, and there are no rules about how it should look! That said, try to get comfortable revealing at least a glimpse of your teeth when you smile, because it’s very hard to keep your mouth closed when you smile out of happiness. Aim to smile in a way that helps you look your best while also creating a natural-looking expression of cheer. Keep in mind that a smile is often the first impression we have of other people. Think about meeting someone for the first time: what would impression would you get if they seemed to be making an effort to keep their mouth closed instead of breaking into a full smile? It’s better to reveal some teeth and have your smile look natural than to close your mouth and look as though you are hiding something. Projecting confidence is more important than projecting perfection, so open up!
Try it in the mirror. First, smile without using your eyes. Do you see the jack-o-lantern effect? The smile doesn’t look happy, it looks . . . a little scary and fake. Now try smiling with your whole face, especially your eyes. This type of smile looks like a true expression of happiness. Practice squinting your eyes a bit more when you smile, to engage the top of your face. See how it balances out your mouth and enables you to close your mouth more and still achieve a happy smile. A Duchenne smile is very difficult to fake. It happens naturally when you truly have a reason to smile. The best way to create one when you’re with other people is to actually feel happy!
Try doing something different with your hair, like curling it or getting an interesting new cut. Wear pretty earrings, a hat or another attention-grabbing accessory. Wear sharp clothing that reflects your unique style. People won’t be thinking about your teeth if you’re rocking an amazing dress or leather coat.
When it comes time to pose for a picture, try to turn so that your best side faces the camera. However, don’t contort yourself trying to get in a certain position - that will defeat the purpose!
If you’re about to be in a photograph or meet a new person, brush your teeth directly beforehand. You’ll be more likely to flash a confident smile. Mouthwash is another great way to freshen your teeth. Carry a small bottle with you to give your teeth a quick rinse when you need a confidence boost throughout the day.
Whitening strips. These are a little on the expensive side, but they really work. You can find them at the drugstore. Hydrogen peroxide. This is a quick, cheap home remedy that whitens your teeth a few shades. Just mix hydrogen peroxide with water, then use it to rinse your teeth. Brush with baking soda. Make a paste with baking soda and water and use it to brush your teeth. It will lift off stains in a jiffy. Don’t do this too often, though, because it can wear away your tooth enamel.
The simplest wire braces are usually the least expensive, but they’re more noticeable than more expensive options. Many orthodontists offer payment plans to help you afford braces if you can’t pay everything at once.
Meeting someone new? Think about how excited you are to get to know someone who could become a great friend or business colleague. Did someone make you laugh? Let yourself heartily enjoy the joke, instead of catching yourself before you smile too big.
