Posted on: 24 March 2025
This year’s World Oral Health Day (Thursday, 20 March) highlighted the crucial link between oral health and overall wellbeing with the message: a happy mouth is… a happy mind. The global event emphasised the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene at every stage of life to support confidence, health and wellbeing.
Strong oral health habits should begin in childhood and continue throughout life. Daily brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups not only protect teeth but also play a significant role in preventing infections, reducing the need for antibiotics and combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR). By keeping our mouths healthy, we ensure that medicines remain effective when needed.
To-do list for a healthy smile
For children
- Brush with fluoride toothpaste twice a day for at least two minutes
- Always brush teeth before bedtime
- Avoid sugary snacks - frequent sugar intake increases the risk of tooth decay
For adults
- Brush natural teeth twice daily – brushing before bed is the most important time
- Limit sugary foods and drinks to mealtimes
- Choose tooth-friendly snacks and drinks such as fruits, vegetables, cheese, milk and water
- Keep dentures clean and store them in a named denture pot when not in use
For those receiving care
- Oral health assessment tools should be completed at least once a month and updated regularly
- Regular monitoring helps detect issues early, preventing infections and discomfort
Find out more: NICE Oral Health Assessment Tool
Sarah Chadwick, Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Programme Manager, said: “Good oral hygiene is not just about a bright smile – it’s essential for overall health. A healthy mouth can reduce the risk of respiratory infections, sepsis, brain abscesses and chronic diseases, supporting a better quality of life at any age.
By preventing infections, we reduce the need for unnecessary antibiotics and help combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR), ensuring these vital medicines remain effective for future generations.”