We’re talking about mouths – because it’s World Oral Health Day.
Geraldeen Irving, Clinical Director of NHS Lanarkshire’s Public Dental Service (pictured), said: “Each year, World Oral Health Day spotlights key areas about the topic.
“This year’s theme, A Happy Mouth is a Happy Mind, aims to raise awareness of the ways in which our mouths can affect our mental wellbeing.
“It’s well known that oral health affects many things such as our overall health, comfort, appearance, diet and even our ability to socialise or take part in daily activities.
“However, when something is not healthy in our mouths, the impact this can have on mental wellbeing is often overlooked.
“We can take a few simple steps such as brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth, eating healthy and nutritious foods and cutting down alcohol, vaping and tobacco.
“By doing this we know our oral health will see huge benefits, with a reduction in tooth decay, gum disease and oral cancers.
“This means we experience fewer of the conditions that can stop us sleeping, eating and taking part in work and education. All of which have a significant effect on our mental health.
“Few things represent happiness quite like a smile and, by protecting yours, you can also have a happy mind.”
More information here – Taking care of your oral health.
