Bringing back Pinoy smiles, one at a time

Filipinos are naturally happy people, with the characteristic Pinoy smile embodying this cheerful personality. That is why it is important for us to have a confident smile. 

Although smiling is instinctive for Filipinos, many forget the impact of this seemingly ordinary expression on our daily lives. More than just brightening up one’s day, did you know that smiling also triggers special benefits that you and the people around you enjoy?

The smile’s special power

Smiling helps improve overall wellbeing. When smiling, the body releases dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin—hormones that help relieve stress. These happy hormones help decrease heart rate and blood pressure, so you feel more relaxed.

With your happiness level up, you also feel more optimistic. Optimism, which is linked to smiling, is associated with longer lifespans. A study found that people with higher levels of optimism have reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and other ailments like cancer. So, smile more for a healthier you.

Smiling is also a way to connect. An article by Yale Scientific asserts that the main purpose of smiling is “to form, sustain, and repair interpersonal relationships.” This non-verbal cue helps us form relationships with those around us. Whether to build new friendships or to establish a professional rapport, remember to put on a smile. A confident smile conveys a sense of trust, helping you leave a lasting impression. Now that’s the power of a smile!

Bringing back the Filipinos’ confident smile

Can you imagine losing your precious smile? Unfortunately, this is a challenge faced by many Filipinos—87.4% of which are suffering from tooth decay or dental cavities.

A recent study commissioned by Polident, a leader in denture care, also found that 83% of Filipinos who need dentures cannot afford them; 18% of Filipinos do not have access to a dentist; and 72% of employers indicated that missing teeth affect their hiring choices, which sadly puts individuals with dental problems at a disadvantage.

With the Oplan Balik Ngiti campaign, Polident Philippines sought to address this dental health gap through free dental consultations and denture education. This is made possible through its partnership with the Philippine Dental Association (PDA), the Philippine Association of Registered Dental Technologists (PARDTI) and trade partners from various drugstore retailers.

During its conduct in Taguig last April, the program served over two thousand Filipinos. Participants were guided through a comprehensive dental care hub and underwent a thorough oral examination by volunteer dentists from the PDA. Experts also conducted demonstrations about proper denture care techniques, as well as adhesive application and cleaning routines for long-term denture health.

Determined to serve more Filipinos and bring back lost smiles one at a time, Polident Philippines is looking to expand its mission to reach more communities nationwide. Polident is also actively looking for partners in creating pathways to economic opportunities for its program participants. This way, Oplan Balik Ngiti not only addresses the dental care aspect, but also the socioeconomic challenges faced by affected communities.

For more information about Oplan Balik Ngiti and other Polident Philippines initiatives, please visit https://web.facebook.com/PolidentPH.