Start summer with a smile – it’s National Smile Month

This May dentists, doctors, teachers and many other professionals will be helping people all over the UK to start summer with a smile. Dentists, doctors and others involved in health will be active in their communities up and down the country to support and promote National smile Month, the UK’s largest and longest running dental health campaign. Here’s what it’s all about.

What is National Smile Month?

National Smile Month is a UK wide dental health awareness campaign that was first established in

1977 and has been held every year since. The mission of the annual event is to promote good oral health for people of all ages by engaging communities and stimulating dialogue with health professionals. Organised by British oral health charity, the Oral Health Foundation, the campaign helps to raise awareness of important health issues and make a positive difference to the oral health of millions across the country every year.

National Smile Month is supported not only by dentists but also by teachers, pharmacies, health professionals, other community-based organisations and even workplaces. By bringing awareness to the forefront, National Smile Month helps to educate, motivate and communicate positive oral health messages and improves the quality of smiles all around the UK.

More importantly than anything else, the friendly and entertaining approach encourages both adults and children to embrace good oral hygiene habits in a way that is fun and enjoyable.

When is National Smile Month?

The 2017  National Smile Month event runs from May 15th to June 15th. The campaign is now in its 41st year and features an incredible 3,000 events across the country as well as participation from dentists, doctors and many others.

To see who’s participating, just look out for the now iconic red ‘smiley’ pictured below.

What are the key messages of National Smile Month?

There are three key messages at the heart of National Smile Month:

• Brush your teeth last thing at night and on at least one other occasion with a fluoride toothpaste.

• Cut down on how often you have sugary foods and drinks.

• Visit your dentist regularly, as often as they recommend.

Together, these three simple steps go a long way in helping us develop and maintain a healthy mouth.

How did National Smile Month start?

National Smile Month was first celebrated in 1977 and has grown in popularity and participation ever since, led by a wide ranging group of people who have one thing in common – a passion for health and wellbeing.

Since its creation just over 40 years ago, National Smile Month has helped facilitate thousands of events and projects, and continues to act as the spearhead campaign for providing organised grassroots activities such as fun days, talks, sponsored events, roadshows, displays, open sessions and competitions – all which have the ultimate goal of engaging people in the importance of oral health.

How can my family and I get involved in National Smile Month?

Firstly, look out for events at your local school, playgroup, community centre or health centre. You might also want to ask your dentist about any events they may be participating in.

In addition, visit the official website http://www.nationalsmilemonth.org/  where you will find lots of resources and information to help you get involved.

At the award-winning Bridge Dental & Implant Centre, our goal is to provide our clients with high-quality, long lasting care in a happy and comfortable environment, with a long-term outlook to your dental care. We encourage preventive techniques which help you to understand how to maintain a healthy mouth, and to keep it free from both tooth decay and gum disease.

To book an appointment now or enquire about becoming a member, call us on Derby 01332 916351 or contact us online here for a quick response.

Posted by Bridge Dental and Implant Clinic on 12th May 2017, under Dental Health Tips