National Smile Month – May. 17, 2027

National Smile Month
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AwarenessLifestyle
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United Kingdom
Date change rule:
Every May 17 through June 17
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National Smile Month brightens smiles across the United Kingdom from May 17 to June 17. Organized by the Oral Health Foundation, this campaign encourages excellent oral health practices and boosts national well-being. Learn about vital dental care tips, join community events, and share your healthy smile.

Want to sponsor National Smile Month? Learn how

Expected National Smile Month Deals

As a prominent health awareness campaign, National Smile Month focuses more on education and community engagement than commercial deals. However, many dental practices and oral care brands often participate with special offers. Look for free dental check-ups or discounted hygiene services at local clinics. Brands like Colgate and Oral-B may run awareness campaigns with product samples or educational content. Retailers such as Boots and Superdrug might feature promotions on toothbrushes, toothpaste, and mouthwash throughout the period. The Oral Health Foundation encourages donations and participation in sponsored events to support their vital work. We will update this page with confirmed live initiatives as May 17 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Smile Month

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalSmileMonth. Share photos and videos of your healthy smile or tips for oral care.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalSmileMonth. Engage with community discussions on oral health and share educational resources.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalSmileMonth. Share quick facts about dental hygiene and retweet messages from dental professionals.

Social Media Tips for National Smile Month

Individuals

Commit to a new oral hygiene routine, schedule a dental check-up, and share your progress using the official hashtag to inspire others.

Creators

Produce short-form videos demonstrating proper brushing and flossing techniques, debunking oral health myths, or interviewing dental professionals.

Brands

Launch a campaign promoting dental health products, offer free educational webinars, or partner with a dental charity for a donation drive.

Organizations & Brands for National Smile Month

  1. Oral Health Foundation

    Established in 1971, the Oral Health Foundation is the UK's leading independent charity working to improve oral health. They organize National Smile Month and provide impartial advice on dental care.

  2. Colgate

    Founded in 1806, Colgate-Palmolive is a global consumer products company. Its Colgate brand is a world leader in oral hygiene products, offering toothpaste, toothbrushes, and mouthwash.

  3. Oral-B

    A brand of Procter & Gamble, Oral-B is known for its toothbrushes, including electric models, and other oral care products. It was founded in 1950 by Dr. Robert Hutson.

  4. British Dental Association

    Formed in 1880, the British Dental Association is the professional association for dentists in the UK. It represents the interests of the dental profession and promotes high standards of patient care.

  5. Sensodyne

    Sensodyne is a brand of toothpaste and mouthwash specifically formulated for people with sensitive teeth. It is owned by Haleon (formerly part of GSK) and widely recommended by dentists.

  6. Boots

    Founded in 1849, Boots is a major health and beauty retailer in the UK and Ireland. It offers a wide range of oral care products, pharmacy services, and often runs promotions aligned with health campaigns.

  7. Philips Sonicare

    Philips Sonicare is a popular brand of electric toothbrushes and oral health products. Known for its advanced sonic technology, it helps users achieve a thorough and effective clean.

National Smile Month Hero

Pierre Fauchard

Often credited as the 'Father of Modern Dentistry,' Pierre Fauchard (1678–1761) was a French physician who published 'Le Chirurgien Dentiste' in 1728. This seminal work described basic oral anatomy, dental instruments, and detailed practical dentistry, establishing it as a distinct profession. His contributions laid the groundwork for modern oral hygiene and treatment.

History of National Smile Month

In 1977, the “Smile 77” campaign began as week-long marketing in the West Midlands. For the event, poet Pam Ayres penned the poem “I Wish I’d Looked After My Teeth,” which was later voted into the top ten of a B.B.C. poll to identify the Nation’s 100 Favorite Poems. The following year, the event was replicated, and the first National Smile Week was held in 1979. ‘Eat Well, Stay Biting Fit’ was the subject of the 1984 Smile Week, which began at the London Transport Museum in Covent Garden and earned around £3.5 million in newspaper attention. Throughout the week, two good-food vans traversed London, teaching youngsters the skill of sugar-free cooking and providing tasters to 2,000 hungry students.

The Dental Health Foundation is the primary organizer of National Smile Month, intending to improve the oral health of millions of people across the United Kingdom. Throughout the month-long campaign, unique events will be held in schools across the United Kingdom to assist youngsters in developing healthy dental habits.

The National Smile Month’s three important themes are that it is critical to brush your teeth at night and at least once throughout the day using fluoride toothpaste. It is also advised to visit your dentist regularly and to limit your intake of sugary drinks and meals. The campaign invites dental and health professionals, schools, pharmacies, community groups, colleges, and workplaces to participate and help us educate, motivate, and communicate positive oral health messages to improve the quality of smiles all over the world.

National Smile Month timeline

1979
First National Smile Celebrate

It begins as a week-long campaign when preventative dentistry isn't commonplace and evolves into a significant emphasis for all dental professionals 40 years later.

2009
International Reach to the United States

The campaign is deemed a success, with an estimated audience of 180 million readers and watchers.

2014
The United Arab Emirates Celebrates

For the first time, the United Arab Emirates celebrates National Smile Month as 'UAE Smile Month.'

2016
Rebranding for Broader Reach

The British Dental Health Foundation renames itself the Oral Health Foundation, reflecting the charity's goals and desire to give oral health information, education, and assistance to individuals all around the world.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Smile Month

Local businesses can champion National Smile Month by promoting good oral health within their communities. Dental practices can offer free consultations or discounted cleaning packages throughout the campaign. Pharmacies and health stores can create dedicated displays for oral care products and provide educational leaflets. Restaurants might offer healthy menu options that are gentle on teeth, or partner with local dentists for joint promotions. Emphasize the long-term benefits of a healthy smile, from confidence to overall well-being, to genuinely connect with customers.

National Smile Month FAQs

When is National Smile Month?

In 2027, National Smile Month will take place from Monday, May 17, to Thursday, June 17. It’s a prime opportunity to focus on improving your dental hygiene habits.

How many people are affected by poor oral health in the UK?

Poor oral health remains a significant public health challenge, with statistics showing a high prevalence of gum disease and tooth decay. The 2027 initiative will continue to highlight these issues and promote preventive care.

What is the Oral Health Foundation?

As a prominent charity, the Oral Health Foundation works tirelessly to raise awareness about dental issues and advocate for better oral hygiene. Their efforts in 2027 will continue to drive positive change.

Why is oral health important?

Maintaining good oral health prevents cavities, gum disease, and bad breath, while also impacting general well-being. The 2027 campaign will underscore the link between a healthy mouth and a healthy body.

National Smile Month Activities

  1. It's educational for the kids

    Do you want some enjoyable activities to teach your children the value of excellent dental health? If so, have a look at the nearest place for oral health education for your children or join with Dental buddy program with the Dental Health Foundation.

  2. Make an appointment to dentist

    Because this month was invented by dentists, surprise yours by visiting them. Make an appointment for a dental examination to ensure that your smile is in good working order.

  3. Share your smile

    Do you want to spread some joy and share your smile? Whatever you decide, treasure the sensation of being able to brighten someone's day, and continue to provide smiles to everyone you encounter.

5 Interesting Facts About Brushing Your Teeth

  1. Floss your teeth

    If you don't floss your teeth, you're leaving up to 40% of your tooth surfaces unclean! Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day is critical for maintaining good oral hygiene.

  2. Tree wigs

    The earliest toothbrushes were made from tree twigs! Chewing on the tips of the twigs spread out the fibers, making it simpler to clean the teeth.

  3. Milk teeth

    Milk teeth begin to grow before birth but do not emerge until the child is six to 12 months old.

  4. Four different types of teeth

    Humans cut, chew, and grind their food using four distinct types of teeth that are classified as incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.

  5. You can damage your teeth

    Brushing your teeth incorrectly might cause harm to them, and you should avoid brushing too hard.

Why We Love National Smile Month

  1. Smiles are powerful

    They not only make you feel good but also form a brief relationship between the people who share a grin. Smiling has been shown in studies to boost worker productivity and creativity, as well as make employees appear more competent and trustworthy.

  2. It has health benefits

    Our brains get healthier as we grin more. This is because smiling makes us joyful, which reduces stress. Smiles have also been shown to lower blood pressure, heart rate, and discomfort. Smiling can boost our stamina, boost our immune system, and even assist maintain our body's cells healthy.

  3. It gives us confidence

    Aside from the fact that our teeth play such a crucial role in our life, a smile provides numerous day-to-day benefits. It may boost our self-esteem and impact our social life, professions, and relationships.

National Smile Month dates

Year Date Day
2027 May 17 Monday
2028 May 17 Wednesday
2029 May 17 Thursday
2030 May 17 Friday
2031 May 17 Saturday