We are in the middle of National Smile Month, an awareness month set up by the Oral Health Foundation to promote good oral health. Currently it is the largest and longest-running campaign with a focus on oral health, and thousands of individuals and organisations are involved to spread the message that good physical and mental wellbeing can be achieved by improving our oral health.

National Smile Month has three key aims, which are as follows:

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

2. Cut down on how much sugary food and drink you have, and how often you have them.

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

These three aims can almost be seen as the ‘Holy Trinity’ of oral health: a good home routine, a healthy diet, and regular professional check-ups.

The campaign encourages dental and health professionals, schools, pharmacies, community groups, colleges and workplaces – 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. With the help and enthusiasm of those who are passionate about promoting healthy lifestyles and improving the quality of life for others, National Smile Month sees thousands of events and activities, educating and engaging local communities about the importance of a healthy mouth.

National Smile Month isn’t just about education and stressing the importance of a healthy mouth. The key to the success of the campaign is that we have lots fun doing it! By taking part in National Smile Month, you are helping to creating a healthier and happier world. The campaign channels positivity and promotes the true value of a smile, not only for its benefits towards physical health, but mental wellbeing too.  A smile might be a small gesture, yet it can have a remarkable effect on our state of mind, as well as the emotional welfare of others.