History and milestones

The Oral Health Foundation was created to tackle a simple but serious problem: too many people were experiencing pain, disease and poor quality of life because they lacked access to clear, trusted oral health information and support. 

The charity began life in the early 1970s, at a time when public understanding of dental health was limited, and prevention was rarely discussed. A small group of dental professionals and industry leaders believed things had to change. They shared a vision that better information, education and communication could help people take control of their oral health and prevent avoidable disease. 

In 1971, the organisation was formally established as the British Dental Health Foundation. From the outset, the Foundation was independent, evidence-based and focused on the needs of the public. Its early work centred on education, prevention and practical advice, helping people better understand how everyday habits and choices affect oral health. 

Over the following decades, the charity grew steadily in reach and influence. It launched national awareness campaigns, developed patient information resources, and created new ways for people to access reliable advice. Initiatives such as the Dental Helpline and National Smile Month helped bring oral health into everyday conversation, while partnerships with professionals and organisations extended the charity’s impact across communities. 

As understanding of health evolved, so did the charity’s focus. It became increasingly clear that oral health is closely linked to overall health, confidence and wellbeing. Issues such as mouth cancer, inequalities in access to care, and the role of diet and lifestyle gained greater prominence in the Foundation’s work. 

In 2016, the charity changed its name to the Oral Health Foundation. This reflected a broader, more inclusive understanding of health that goes beyond teeth alone and recognises the mouth as an essential part of the body. The new name also better represented the charity’s growing role in education, policy and advocacy, both in the UK and internationally. 

Today, the Oral Health Foundation continues to build on more than five decades of experience. It works to empower people with trusted information, support professionals and educators, strengthen partnerships, and influence policy to reduce inequalities. While the challenges facing oral health have changed over time, the Foundation’s purpose remains the same: to improve oral health and quality of life for everyone, without exception. 

Milestones 

Laying the foundations (1971–1989) 

• 1971 – The charity is formally incorporated and begins work as the British Dental Health Foundation. 

• 1972 – First national public oral health campaign is launched. 

• Late 1970s – Early awareness campaigns pave the way for what becomes National Smile Month. 

• 1980s – Public demand for trusted oral health advice grows rapidly, establishing the charity as a national voice. 

Building public trust (1990–1999) 

• 1991 – The Product Accreditation programme is launched, helping the public identify oral health products backed by evidence. 

• Mid-1990s – Patient information resources expand, improving access to clear, practical guidance. 

• 1997 – The Dental Helpline opens, offering free, confidential advice to the public. 

Expanding reach and influence (2000–2010) 

• 2000 – The charity adopts a modern governance structure and becomes trustee-led. 

• 2003 – Mouth Cancer Action becomes a core national campaign, raising awareness of early signs and risk factors. 

• 2008 – National Smile Month expands beyond the UK for the first time. 

• 2009 – Annual income exceeds £1 million, reflecting growing impact and trust. 

Education, prevention and partnerships (2011–2019) 

• 2013 – Dental Buddy, the school-based oral health education programme, is launched. 

• 2014 – National Smile Month celebrates 40 years and is delivered internationally, including in the Middle East. 

• 2016 – The British Dental Health Foundation becomes the Oral Health Foundation, reflecting a whole-mouth, whole-health approach. 

• 2017 – The Dental Helpline marks 20 years of supporting the public. 

Responding to changing needs and shaping the future (2020–present) 

• 2020 – Rapid public guidance and support delivered during the COVID-19 pandemic, reaching millions online. 

• 2021 – The charity marks 50 years of improving oral health, reflecting five decades of education, prevention and public support. 

• 2023–2024 – Continued growth of national campaigns, accreditation, professional education and cross-sector partnerships.