The Oral Health Foundation is inviting people across the UK to share their smile and become part of a nationwide “Wall of Smiles” as Smile Month officially launches its 50th campaign today.
The special anniversary initiative aims to celebrate the people, communities, and organisations that help improve oral health every day, while encouraging supporters to spread positive oral health messages through their own networks and communities.
First launched in 1977, Smile Month has become the UK’s largest and longest-running oral health awareness campaign, spending five decades championing better oral health through education, prevention, and awareness.
Over the years, the campaign has reached millions of people with practical advice and positive oral health messages designed to support healthier lives and improve wellbeing.
Today, Smile Month continues to bring together dental professionals, schools, workplaces, charities, health organisations, and community groups behind a shared mission to improve the nation’s oral health.
This year’s campaign focuses on encouraging conversations around prevention, healthy habits, and the important links between oral health and overall health.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, the Oral Health Foundation is encouraging supporters to submit photos to feature on its Wall of Smiles throughout the campaign.
Karen Coates, Oral Health Educator at the Oral Health Foundation, said: “Launching the 50th Smile Month campaign is an incredibly proud moment for everybody connected to the Oral Health Foundation.
“For five decades, Smile Month has helped raise awareness of the importance of good oral health and empowered people with simple, practical advice to protect their health and wellbeing.
“While we have seen significant progress since the campaign first began in 1977, there is still much more to do to tackle oral health inequalities and improve access to preventive advice and care.
“Our Wall of Smiles is about celebrating the people who continue to make a difference every day – from dental teams and healthcare professionals to schools, families, workplaces, and local communities. We would love to see as many people as possible get involved and share their smile.”
Smile Month will run throughout the coming weeks with activities, events, educational resources, and community engagement taking place across the UK.
The Oral Health Foundation is encouraging everybody to take part by sharing their smile and taking simple steps to improve and maintain their oral health. This includes brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, cutting down on sugary foods and drinks, and visiting the dentist regularly to help keep mouths healthy.
Share your smile at www.dentalhealth.org/smile50.
