The 40th anniversary celebration of National Smile Month took place at Kensington Roof Gardens in London on 10 May 2016.

Created by the Oral Health Foundation (formerly the British Dental Health Foundation), National Smile Month is an opportunity for communities to come together and be inspired to help spread positive messages of oral health.

BDJ Senior Managing Editor Ruth Doherty (left) and BDJ News Editor Kate Quinlan at the 40 year celebration and launch of National Smile Month 2016

This year's National Smile Month runs from 16 May to 16 June and dental practices and organisations are encouraged to get involved by organising activities and events which will promote oral health within local communities, with a focus on three key messages:

  • 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 your dentist regularly, as often as they recommend.

The Foundation suggest organising a smileathon with the smiley prop (modelled here by BDJ staff); a two-minute collective toothbrushing challenge; organising a school visit to deliver oral health education in the classroom; holding a mass brushathon; or organising fundraising events. For more information and inspiration visit www.smilemonth.org/events.