The campaign is designed to promote good oral health and encourages dental and health professionals - in fact anyone with an interest in good oral healthcare – to join in and help educate, motivate and communicate positive oral health messages and improve the quality of smiles all around the world.
National Smile Month highlights three key messages, to help develop and maintain a healthy mouth:
- 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.
How can you 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.
Raising awareness is so important, there are lots things you are able to do in the Dental Practice to help raise funds and awareness, for example, a 'Smile Jar' - you can have a jar full of tips on having a great smile. Something that can really and truly get everyone involved, from the dental team to patients.
We have been having great fun in Cavity HQ playing around with all different types of smiles!
For every selfie we are tagged in on social media from our Locum Dental Nurses we will donate £5 to Smile Month! #smilemonth
In addition, visit the official website https://www.nationalsmilemonth.org/ where you will find lots of resources and information to help you get involved. There are several dates throughout the year that focus on oral healthcare, for example:
In November the focus turns to Mouth Cancer Awareness, at which point you see a lot of blue lip selfies. Cavity HQ participated in a sponsored walk for Mouth Cancer Awareness, we did a 10k walk around Hyde Park, London. We all struggled to move the next day!
In February we look at Children’s Dental Health Month, it’s important to start brushing early to maintain good oral hygiene. Colgate have launched some really great videos for kids, click here to view them to start educating children.
On 20th March we celebrate World Oral Health Day and this looks to highlight the importance of oral health for a healthy body. It is claimed that if you act on Mouth Health also has a positive impact on your general health and well-being!