Today marks , a global celebration with a simple yet powerful reminder that a smile can change everything. But according to a new local survey, many South Africans are holding back their smiles because of insecurities.
The findings show that 39 worry about food stuck in their teeth, 20 about crooked teeth, and 16 dislike their weird smile in photos. Strikingly, 42 admitted they've avoided smiling in public altogether.
For most, these are temporary concerns. But for thousands of children born with cleft lips and palates, smiling isn't just about confidence, it often requires surgery.