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Smile

H.4Updated on

Summary

Effectiveness

2/3

An immediate effect on facial expression and presentation. The gain depends on the initial smile and the context.

Accessibility

3/3

A few tests in front of the mirror or on video, without equipment or exercise program, to find easy-to-reproduce benchmarks.

An unflattering smile doesn't always come from the teeth or face shape. A pursed mouth, pulled very far to the sides or opened more than necessary can be enough to change its appearance. Trying a different way of smiling sometimes results in immediate improvement, with exactly the same face.

Start with two variations: a closed-lip smile, then a smile that shows the upper teeth. In both cases, bring the corners of the mouth up towards the cheekbones rather than just trying to widen the mouth. Let the cheeks accompany the movement and compare the result at several intensities.

Sources

  1. Dynamic properties of successful smiles (new tab)
  2. Perceptions of Duchenne and non-Duchenne smiles: A meta-analysis (new tab)
  3. Tooth display and lip position during spontaneous and posed smiling in adults (new tab)

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About this content

The contents do not claim any medical or paramedical qualifications and are not systematically reviewed by a healthcare professional.
The site shares general information and practical tips. It does not make a diagnosis, does not prescribe any treatment and does not replace advice adapted to your situation.