The Houses for Parliament may have seen a dramatic change following the outcome of last week's general election but one event there remains very much the same – the launch of this year's National Smile Month!

The annual event, held in the House of Parliament on 13 May, will see the greater and the good of dentistry gather to signal the start of the biggest oral health campaign on the calendar.

Organised by the British Dental Health Foundation, this year's National Smile Month tagline of Teeth4Life aims to highlight the importance of looking after your teeth and maintaining them for life.

The official launch, hosted by Parliamentary sponsor Sir Paul Beresford MP, will include speeches from some of dentistry's leading experts including the Foundation's Chief Executive Dr Nigel Carter and newly elected President Daniel Davis.

The campaign itself runs between May 16 and June 16 and encourages people of all ages to get involved and talk about their teeth, in the hope of being able to improve general standards dental health.

Chief executive Dr Nigel Carter hopes the launch will be the start of the biggest campaign yet for the British Dental Health Foundation.

Dr Carter said: 'Getting people to talk about their teeth and dental habits is vital in our goal of improving the state of oral health in this country. We have had a tremendous response to the campaign, particularly in the last couple of years, but we must work harder to ensure this year's National Smile Month can build on that success.

'Over the years we have seen dental practices, schools, hospitals, pharmacies even Scout and Brownie groups organise themed events and this year is no different. The more people who get involved the further the message will spread and the bigger difference we can make.

'The launch on Thursday will act as a thank you to all those involved in preparing the campaign, the investments and many months of hard work which have made Teeth4Life possible.'

Sponsored by the three giants of oral health care – Oral-B, Orbit Complete and Listerine – this year's campaign provides an exciting opportunity for everyone to get involved in promoting good oral healthcare.

During the course of the month, the Foundation will be looking to promote their three key oral health messages.

Dr Carter added: 'As far as day–to–day oral health goes, our three key messages of brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste, cutting down on how often you have sugary foods and drinks and visiting your dentist at least once a year, provide a firm base for a lifetime of good oral health.

'Remember, good oral health can improve your confidence, your attractiveness and your general health – so don't underestimate it!'

Teeth4Life will herald the 34th year of National Smile Month for the Foundation, who work hard all year round in providing good oral healthcare education to the public. The National Dental Helpline (0845 063 1188) receives tens of thousands of calls every year from the public looking for free dental advice.

For more information on National Smile Month visit the website at www.smilemonth.org.

www.dentistry.co.uk 10th May 2010