National Smile Month 2010

National Smile Month Runs from May 16th – June 16th and is aimed at improving the public’s oral health. The British Dental Health Foundation are the charity behind the campaign, which is this year entitled “Teeth 4 Life”, and they have three key messages:
1) Twice daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste
2) Cut down on sugary foods & drinks
3) Regular visits to the dentist

The campaign highlights the importance of looking after your teeth & maintaining them for life, also stressing that a healthy diet can improve your quality of life. Once again, the message also intends to raise awareness of the systemic link between good oral health and good overall body health. The foundation has evidence of links between poor oral health and premature births, diabetes, strokes and coronary heart disease.

The February issue of Obstetrics & Gynaecology published details of a case in Ohio where oral bacteria from a 35 year-old woman’s gingivitis was found to be the cause of her stillborn baby. The Foundation reported that preventative treatment of severe gum disease in pregnant women could help avoid premature births.

Studies have also found that some of the bacteria involved in aggressive periodontal disease carry a “statistically significant association” with an increased risk of heart attack. This follows previous research into the direct link between oral bacteria and heart attacks.

At the University of California, scientists have found that gum disease may contribute to the blocking of the carotid artery, leading to an increased risk of strokes. Blocked carotid arteries were much more common in patients with gum disease.

In May 2009, evidence was presented at the International Association of Dental Research Conference which supported the link between oral health & diabetes. Regular dental checks are an ideal screening for early signs of diabetes and the evidence also suggested that those who have undiagnosed gum disease are at an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
For the foundation, and all of us involved in dentistry, the 2010 campaign gives us an excellent opportunity to get EVERYONE involved in promoting good oral healthcare, and the benefits to our overall well-being. For more information please visit www.smilemonth.org