Smile MonthBetween 11 May and 11 June 2026, the Oral Health Foundation will raise awareness of important oral health issues. Join the nation's biggest oral health campaign and help bring a smile to millions of people. This year is our biggest year yet as we get ready to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Smile Month, and we need your smiling faces to make it happen. Join our Smile Wall using the buttons below. See our online wall Add your smile There are lots of different activities you can take part in for Smile Month. Have a look at the full list here. Take part The Smile Wall About the campaign What is Smile Month? History of the campaign Why it matters today Who takes part 50 years of smiles The story of 50 years How smiles have changed Half a century of healthy smiles Our vision for the next 50 Why smiles matter Better oral health Confidence & wellbeing Social and life impact Everyday quality of life Who's behind it Oral Health Foundation Our sponsors Take part Activities For dental teams For schools & youth groups In workplaces For families and communities View all Downloads Logo & email signature Social media Digital guides Learning resources Facts and talking points For dental professionals (DCPs) Shop Fundraising Donate Set up your fundraising page Fundraising ideas Taking action Wall of Smiles Sign the Prevention Pledge Your oral health Daily habits Brushing basics Cleaning between teeth Why mouthwash matters Diet Diet and oral health Best tooth-friendly foods Foods and drinks to avoid The impact of sugar The role of hydration Children's teeth First teeth School years Teen habits Making brushing fun All ages Young adults Adults Older adults Changes to watch for Common mistakes Brushing too hard Rinsing with water Grazing all day Ignoring bleeding gums Oral Health Foundation Home Snack smart: healthy alternatives to sugary treats Snacking is part of daily life, but the wrong choices can harm your teeth. Many snacks are loaded with sugar, which feeds bacteria, produces acids, and leads to decay. The good news is there are plenty of delicious, tooth-friendly alternatives that satisfy cravings without putting your smile at risk. Why smart snacking matters Every time you eat, your teeth are exposed to acids that can weaken enamel. Sugary snacks make this worse by feeding bacteria that produce even more acid. Choosing the right snacks helps: Reduce the risk of decay and cavities Strengthen enamel with essential nutrients Keep your breath fresh and gums healthy Healthy snack swaps for a brighter smile Instead of biscuits and cakes, try nuts and seeds These are low in sugar and packed with tooth-friendly minerals like calcium and phosphorus. Instead of chewy sweets, try fresh berries These are naturally sweet, high in fibre, and much gentler on your teeth Swap fizzy drinks for water or milk Water washes away acids, and milk strengthens teeth with calcium. Instead of crisps, have crunchy vegetables Stimulate saliva flow and naturally clean teeth, while still getting a satisfying crunch. Swap chocolate for apple slices and nut butter Satisfy your sweet cravings with something lower in sugar. Instead of ice cream, have Greek yoghurt It is packed with calcium and probiotics for gut health. Instead of pastries, have cheese cubes Cheese helps neutralise acid and strengthen enamel. Tooth-friendly snacking tips Pair snacks with water Helps rinse away food particles and acids. Go for whole foods Fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and dairy are better for teeth than processed snacks. Limit grazing Frequent snacking keeps teeth exposed to acids for longer. Try to eat at set times. Chew sugar-free gum Helps produce saliva to neutralise acids and clean teeth between meals. Read labels Watch out for hidden sugars in "healthy" snacks like granola bars and flavoured yoghurts. The bottom line Snacking doesn’t have to be bad for your teeth! With the right choices, you can enjoy tasty, satisfying snacks while keeping your smile strong and healthy. Want to know more about the best foods for your teeth? Check out our Best Foods for a Brighter, Stronger Smile guide! Manage Cookie Preferences