The blog was released on the British Dental Health Foundation Blog section.
Hello, and welcome to the very latest edition of Word of Mouth.
I’m delighted to announce to registration process for Mouth Cancer Action Month is now open. Running throughout November, the annual campaign to raise awareness of the disease needs your support. Details on how to register can be found on page 6.
Ever since the British Dental Health Foundation was established more than 40 years ago, it has been built on three key messages for good oral health. Brushing teeth for two minutes twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste, cutting down how often you have sugary foods and drinks and visiting the dentist regularly, as often as they recommend, may not sound a lot, but there are plenty who give even these most basic of messages the brush off. Read just how many people do this on page 8.
Speaking of toothbrushes, it is clear that once they are no longer fit for purpose, we are very creative with what we do with them. From jewellery to shoes, there are plenty of things you can do with your old toothbrush, and take your pick from the suggestions on page 9.
There has been no escaping the discussion about sugars and their role in health problems in the UK. One of the main sources is of course sugary drinks, with many leading brands taking steps to reduce the sugar content of drinks. Instead of sugary drinks, we take a closer look at a less harmful drinks for your teeth on page 10.
I’m also delighted to announce the launch of the Foundation’s new web shop, Educating Smiles. The colourful, vibrant site showcases everything the Foundation has to offer, and you can find out more about the shop in our feature.
One of our most charitable activities is the National Dental Helpline. Staffed with fully trained nurses, our two minutes twice a day features looks at what the helpline can do for you on page 14.
Kate Middleton’s announcement that she was expecting a second child was greeted with joy across the nation, and it gives us a chance to talk to mums-to-be about how they can look after their own and their child’s oral health. With growing links between what happens in the mouth and what happens in the womb, our facts and tips on page 16 are a fascinating read.
Enjoy the issue and we will see you for a very special edition in October.