A smile is one of the most recognisable forms of human expression, but its meaning has evolved throughout history. In this episode, we explore how smiling has been viewed across different cultures and time periods, and why attitudes towards showing our teeth have changed.

The discussion examines the social, cultural and psychological significance of smiling, alongside the growing importance placed on oral health and confidence. As dentistry has advanced and people have become more aware of preventive care, healthy smiles have increasingly become associated with wellbeing, communication and self-esteem.

We also consider how modern society, media and technology have influenced perceptions of smiles, and why maintaining healthy teeth is about much more than appearance alone.

This episode combines history, science and oral health to explain why smiles continue to play such an important role in everyday life.

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Topics covered:

• The history of smiling

• Cultural attitudes towards smiles

• Confidence and oral health

• Modern perceptions of healthy teeth

• The connection between smiles and wellbeing