Health bosses launch Birmingham dental hygiene initiative
May 21 2009 by Alison Dayani, Birmingham Mail
HEALTH bosses are hoping to persuade locals, young and old, to brush aside fears of visiting their dentist as part of events to mark National Smile Month.
A toothbrush amnesty will even take place across Birmingham where people can get a bright, new toothbrush in exchange for their old, worn ones.
It is part of a series of promotions in the coming month to give families advice, offer giveaways and assistance in accessing an NHS dentist in the city centre and the suburbs.
A health bus containing dentists will be in place at the Bullring Outdoor Markets from 8.30am until 5pm tomorrow as part of the month.
Ros Hamburger, consultant in dental public health for Birmingham, said: “This is the ideal opportunity to brush aside all the reservations about visiting a dentist.
“We have three dentists who will be stationed on our health bus at the Bullring Outdoor Markets, providing oral health checks and offering assistance with signing up to a local dentist.
“In addition, we are launching a ‘toothbrush amnesty’, encouraging people to ditch their dirty brushes and receive a sparkling new toothbrush, absolutely free of charge.
“The dental team will also be offering important advice on how to keep a healthy mouth.
“This is important as the mouth can act as a window to the body’s health, some serious diseases including blood disorders, some skin diseases, some rheumatoid diseases and diabetes can come to light first at an oral examination.”
A city-wide ‘smile’ competition, in conjunction with radio station BRMB is also taking place, with a chance of winning a family weekend for four at Centre Parcs.
