How people feel about their smile can affect how they feel about themselves. A comfortable, healthy mouth can help people feel more at ease in social situations. Smiling is closely linked with how people show happiness and friendliness.

When someone is worried about their teeth or gums, they may:

• Avoid smiling.

• Feel self-conscious when talking.

• Worry about bad breath.

• Lose confidence in social settings.

These feelings can build up over time. They may affect how someone joins in at school, work or social events. Feeling unsure about your smile can also cause stress or embarrassment.

Good daily habits can help reduce these worries. Feeling in control of your smile can support overall wellbeing. It can also make visits to a dental team feel less stressful.

A healthy smile can help people:

• Feel more relaxed in conversations.

• Express themselves more freely.

• Feel more positive about their appearance.

• Take part in social activities with confidence.

Looking after your mouth is part of looking after your whole self. It supports comfort, confidence and peace of mind.