BDA calls on dentists to get involved with National Smile Month

The British Dental Association (BDA) is calling for dental professionals to use National Smile Month as an opportunity to educate patients on the value of good oral health.

Organised annually by the Oral Health Foundation, the campaign commenced on May 16th and runs until June 16th. It promotes three key messages: to brush twice a day, to cut down on sugary food and drinks and to visit the dentist regularly.

Dentists can get involved by promoting the key health messages to their patients using the dedicated resources provided, as well as taking part in local activities and engaging with the campaign via the #nationalsmilemonth and #mysmileyselfie Twitter hashtags.

The BDA will also be promoting the issue of sugar consumption and its impact on children's oral health throughout the month.

National Smile Month celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, making it the UK's largest and longest-running oral health campaign.

In 2015, the campaign saw more than 4,000 organisations registering their interest to take part – a total that the Oral Health Foundation hopes to exceed this year.