To coincide with National Smile Month, NHS Lanarkshire is reminding local residents to continue to look after their oral health during COVID-19 (coronavirus).

National Smile Month is an annual campaign which focuses on the importance of good oral health and this year sees it running as an entirely digital campaign. Visit www.nationalsmilemonth.com for a range of online activities including competitions and home schooling resources.

With routine dental appointments and treatment postponed, it is important that everyone maintains good oral health.

Albert Yeung, Consultant in Dental Public Health, said: “During this prolonged period of lockdown, we might all find ourselves eating and snacking more often.

“Snacking can be a good part of a balanced diet, but it can also lead to us consuming more energy, sugar, fat or salt than we need. We can all look after our oral health by following a few simple tips:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss between your teeth.
• Cut down on the amount of sugar you eat and drink.

“However, if you have a dental problem you can still telephone your dentist as normal. They will offer advice and arrange treatment, if needed. If you have a dental problem out-of-hours and it cannot wait until your dental practice opens, contact NHS 24 on 111.”

For details of all dental practices, visit www.nhsinform.scot and click on ‘Scotland’s Service Directory’.