This month it is the British Dental Health Foundation’s National Smile Month. It is the UK’s largest and longest-running oral health campaign as it began in 1977. It aims to educate citizens and improve oral health in the UK – and have fun along the way.
Three Key Messages
The three main messages National Smile Month promotes as its “bread and butter” principles include:
1. Make brushing teeth the last thing you do at night and ensure you also brush on at least one other occasion with a fluoride toothpaste.
2. Everyone should reduce their consumption of sugary foods and drinks.
3. Visit your dentist as often as they recommend.
Top Tips for a Healthy Mouth
Some of the best tips the National Smile Month wants citizens to know are:
– Flossing is extremely important as it cleans a higher portion of each tooth and prevents a plaque build-up.
– A diet that is full of vitamins, minerals, fresh fruit and vegetables can assist in the prevention of gum disease.
– It is actually better for your teeth if you eat three meals and two snacks a day, instead of consistently snacking.
– Visit your dentist regularly for frequent check-ups and cleaning advice.
The Attraction of Smiles
The National Smile Month team conducted a survey that found a smile is the second most important physical characteristic when it comes to attraction. Personality was first with 90% followed by a smile at 56% and a person’s face at 51%. CEO of the British Dental Health Foundation, Dr Nigel Carter OBE believes a simple smile can boost a person’s confidence. “The symbol behind this year’s National Smile Month, the Smiley, lends itself perfectly to those people who want to get their own smile factor and portray a real confidence through a smile.”
Follow these tips and key principles to improve your oral health and ensure that every month is National Smile Month when it comes to your smile.