Today, you see the yellow smile icon just about everywhere you turn – from captions on social media to casual e-mails. As a result, the original meaning of Harvey Ball’s creation has been lost. That’s why October 4th is so important! If you’re interested in learning the reason behind his creation and how you can get involved in World Smile Day this year, then keep reading.
The History of World Smile Day
In the early 1960s, Harvey Ball created the yellow smile icon with one goal: to spread joy, kindness, and compassion throughout the world. Since his artwork has been commercialized over the years, October 4th was declared World Smile Day in 1999. This day is now used to spread awareness about the original intention, which is to share your smile with the people around you, making the world a better place in the process.
The Importance of Your Smile
Initially, you might think that your smile doesn’t have that much power. The reality is that sharing yours with the person you pass on your morning walk, the barista making your coffee, or the cashier at the grocery store can go a long way in making their day a little better. It may even inspire them to do the same, resulting in a ripple-effect of positivity!
Note: If you aren’t happy with your smile, then talk to your dentist! They can conduct an oral exam, learn about your aesthetic goals, and determine what your treatment options are.
How You Can Participate in World Smile Day
If you are interested in participating in World Smile Day, there’s good news: there are often lots of opportunities to serve your community during this time of year. Look for classroom supply drives, Halloween candy donations, and organizations that are putting together holiday meals for people who don’t have a home. If your schedule is packed because of back-to-school season or an increased workload, you can also look for places to donate online!
About the Practice
Our team at Dudley Family Dental is proud to be a part of the Simply Doing Good network, which has sponsored more than 100 events and organizations over the years. So, if you are interested in getting involved, or you have a cause that you’re passionate about, don’t hesitate to let us know! You can get in touch with us via our website or by phone at (508) 943-7001.