Take a picture/video of yourself while brushing and post it on social media.

Brushing your teeth is not usually considered a communal event. It’s done in the privacy of your bathrooms, in the morning and last thing at night. Perhaps you’ll open the door for your partner or children, but apart from that, your brushing routine is something not too many people see.

That is until National Smile Month comes around!

On Monday 13th of May 2024, The Great British Brushathon will connect people from all around the world in one giant communal brushing event.

All you must do is take a selfie whilst brushing your teeth and post it to social media. Alternatively, if you want to get a bit more creative you can film a video of yourself brushing. If you live with any family or friends, get them to join you too.

It’s that easy.

By sharing your brushing selfie (or video) and encouraging others to do the same, you can help promote the value of brushing your teeth and having a healthy smile.

We will be giving shout outs to our favourite #GreatBritishBrushathon selfies/videos throughout the day so make sure to use the hashtag so we can easily find yours!

Add a reminder to your calendar so you don't miss it! 

How to take part in The Great British Brushathon

• Take a picture or video of yourself (and the rest of your family if you wish) brushing your teeth.

• Post the photo/video on your social media on Monday 13th May along with a comment on why you think taking care of your oral health is important. Don't forget to include the hashtags #SmileMonth and #GreatBritishBrushathon.

• Stuck for what to say? Here's an example: ‘This is how I take care of my teeth. I’m supporting National #SmileMonth because looking after my smile is really important for my teeth, gums and mental health too. #GreatBritishBrushathon.’

• Tag three friends into your post and challenge them to upload their toothbrushing selfie on social media for National Smile Month.

Alternatively, if you thrive in the spotlight, you can try brushing your teeth while live streaming on social media. Before going live on 13th May, don’t forget to include the above message and hashtag.

Let us know if you are planning to take part and we can look out for and share your post.

Our top three brushing tips

• Only use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste, it's all your teeth need, and it avoids too much mess.

• Don't press your toothbrush flatly against your teeth, ideally you should brush towards your gum line at a 45 degree angle for the best clean.

• Spit out the toothpaste and don't rinse with water! It might be tempting to rinse out your mouth after brushing however if you spit instead it allows the fluoride from your toothpaste to protect your teeth throughout the day!

Watch our livestream with Dr Ben Atkins here in case you missed it!