BDJ News Editor Kate Quinlan (left) and Senior Managing Editor Ruth Doherty at the launch of National Smile Month 2017

On 9 May 2017 the 41st National Smile Month was officially launched at Sixty One Whitehall, an historic building in Westminster. Organisers the Oral Health Foundation are calling for National Smile Month 2017 to be an opportunity for health professionals to bring their communities together and be inspired to spread positive oral health messages nationwide.

Dr Nigel Carter OBE, CEO of the Oral Health Foundation, said: 'Taking part in National Smile Month is so easy. It doesn't necessarily involve lots of time or money, just the passion to make a difference and help promote oral health in your community. Whether it's in your dental practice, hospital or general practice, school, pharmacy, retail outlet, workplace or even out on the streets themselves, use the campaign to educate people about the importance of good oral health.

'Our ultimate goal is to improve the oral health of every person in the UK and enable them to smile with confidence. This is a huge task that we need your help to achieve. We are looking for people who can take our values and desire for oral health education and come up with fun and engaging ways to spread the word among their community.'

The campaign helps deliver the Oral Health Foundation's three key messages as a pathway to good oral health:

  • Brush your teeth last thing at night and at least one other time during the day, with a fluoride toothpaste

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

  • Visit the dentist regularly – as often as they recommend.

Suggested National Smile Month events include a Smileathon, a Two Minute toothbrushing Challenge, school visits, a communal Brushathon, and fundraising such as a sponsored dance, race or face painting.

For more inspiration on how to get involved in National Smile Month 2017, which runs from 15 May to 15 June, visit www.smilemonth.org/events.