Say Cheese! This May is National Smile Month

This May dentists, doctors, teachers and many other professionals will be working with their communities up and down the country to support and promote National smile Month, the UK’s largest and longest running dental health campaign. Not heard about it before? Here’s all you need to know.

When does National Smile Month take place?

This year, the annual National Smile Month event will run from May 15th to June 15th. Now in it’s 41st year, the campaign 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 is National Smile Month?

National Smile Month is a UK wide campaign that has been held every year since its establishment in 1977. It’s mission is to promote good oral health for people of all ages by engaging communities and stimulating dialogue with health professionals. The event is organised by British oral health charity, the Oral Health Foundation. Every year, the campaign helps to raise awareness of important health issues and make a positive difference to the oral health of millions across the country.

Supported by dentists, teachers, pharmacies, health professionals, other community-based organisations and even workplaces, 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, it encourages both adults and children to embrace good oral hygiene habits in a way that is fun and enjoyable.

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.

When did National Smile Month begin?

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 take part 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 Perfect Pearls Dental Implant Centres, we put the health and well being of our patients at the heart of everything we do. To find out more about our low cost, high quality dental treatments get in touch on Wolverhampton 01902 500823 or contact us online for a fast response.