The Oral Health Foundation is a long-running charity that focuses on the delivery of better oral health education both here in the UK and worldwide. You may have heard of them through their campaigns such as National Smile Month and Mouth Cancer Action Month, and many of you will have received their promotional packs in your practice.

Those of you who read the press releases on the GDC’s website may be familiar with the blog written by the current chairman, Bill Moyes, in which he reports on current issues and topics and provides an insight into council meetings. His blog from the 15th April reflects on one of the aims of the GDC’s three-year ‘road map’. 

What is National Smile Month?

National Smile Month is a campaign organised by the Oral Health Foundation (formerly the British Dental Health Foundation). The aim is simple – to improve oral health in the UK. It began as a week-long campaign called Smile '77 in 1977 and went on to be known as National Smile Week. Whilst celebrating its thirtieth birthday it became National Smile Month, and it is now approaching its fortieth birthday! This year it will run from 16th May to 16th June. The campaign helps to bring preventative messages to our patients.

The daunting ‘I want a pay rise’ meeting – we have all been there. Imagine if there was an easier way to convince your employer to increase your wages. The key thing to remember is that a valuable member of staff is worth investing in. 

When you become a registered nurse, you will immediately become aware of the importance of upholding the values of the profession. Whether it is through your own practice policies or the GDC Standards, you will be constantly reminded that you work in a professional field and must conduct yourself in a way which is appropriate and fitting to the industry.