WARWICKSHIRE, United Kingdom – The benefits of a healthy diet are well publicised, but not everyone realises how important the food we eat is to the appearance of our smile. May 14 to June 13 is National Smile Month. Organised by oral health charity, the British Dental Health Foundation, this year’s campaign is using the tagline ‘Feed Your Smile’ to remind people of the importance of healthy eating.

Like the rest of the body, our teeth benefit from a healthy balanced diet.

This should include food from each of the major food groups and at least five portions of fruit and vegetables each day.

For healthy teeth, it is important to limit the frequency of sugary foods and drinks as too regular consumption of sugar causes decay. Try to keep sugary foods and drinks to mealtimes and, if you do snack, choose something healthy such as vegetables, fruit, cheese or sugar free.

Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the Foundation, commented: “National Smile Month is the biggest annual oral health event in the UK and provides people with the ideal opportunity to look at how they can improve their oral health.

“A good oral health routine involves twice daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily and cutting down on the frequency of sugary foods and drinks. You should also maintain regular visits to the dentist.”

SOURCE: British Dental Health Foundation

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