Join us in celebrating National Oral Health Month! Celebrate Canada’s largest oral health campaign and help people across the country build healthier smiles. This April, we’re shining a spotlight on prevention, maintenance, and helping you make informed choices about your oral and overall health.
Why National Oral Health Month matters
National Oral Health Month (NOHM) is an important time to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining good oral health and its connection to overall well-being. Healthy teeth and gums are not only essential for a confident smile, but also play a key role in preventing chronic disease.
By educating Canadians about proper oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and early detection of potential problems, NOHM encourages people to take proactive steps in safeguarding their health. Every Canadian deserves access to affordable oral health care. This April, help us spread the message: brush, floss, eat well, and visit your dentist regularly. Find out more about what CDA is doing this NOHM.
Download our oral health basics checklist
Oral health basics for a healthy life
Oral health is a key component of overall well-being, and it starts with simple, consistent habits: brushing twice daily, flossing, eating a balanced diet, and visiting your dentist regularly. A strong daily routine at home lays the foundation for a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. These small actions have a big impact, and your dentist plays a key role in catching issues early and keeping your teeth and gums in top condition. No matter your age—whether 5, 25, 55, or 75—prioritizing the basics of oral care helps protect your smile and your overall health. Learn more about oral health basics, risk factors, and best practices for good oral hygiene.
Protect your smile—skip the fads
DIY trends and social media “hacks” may promise quick results but may lead to lasting damage. Instead of trusting the latest fad, rely on your dentist for guidance. Healthy smiles don’t need shortcuts—simple habits like brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, eating a balanced diet, and drinking water are effective and proven ways to maintain oral health. At the CDA, we emphasize practises grounded in science, not viral trends, to ensure that your smile stays strong and healthy. Fads will fade, but a healthy smile is always in style.
Choosing Products with the CDA Seal
Purchasing dental products can be overwhelming, with so many options to choose from. To take the guesswork out of shopping, look for products with the CDA Seal. The CDA Seal verifies that oral health benefit claims made by manufacturers are supported by scientific evidence. Trusted by dental professionals, products with the CDA Seal provide effective oral care. Whether you’re shopping for toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, or other types of oral health products, the CDA Seal helps you make informed decisions for your mouth. Look for the Seal on the packaging when shopping, or check out our list of products with the CDA Seal.
The importance of a team approach to dentistry
A team approach to oral health delivers results. Your dental health care team is dedicated to caring for your teeth, your mouth, and your overall health. Each team member plays an important role, and with their combined expertise, they work together to maintain your oral health. Trust them to keep your smile healthy and bright—today and for years to come.
Start the conversation about oral cancer and HPV
Oral cancer can affect anyone, and early detection and screening is vital. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common virus and known risk factor for oral cancer, and HPV vaccination helps reduce risk. Regular self-checks and attention to changes in your mouth, lips, or throat can catch signs early. Your dentist and dental team are trusted partners for prevention, screening, and guidance. Open conversations about oral cancer, HPV, and vaccination help reduce stigma and make prevention part of everyday care—supporting healthier smiles for life.
How you can make an impact this National Oral Health Month
Every smile matters. You can help raise awareness of the importance of good oral health this NOHM. Get involved by practising healthy daily habits, educating friends and family, and sharing our posts on social media.
We’re also hosting a NOHM – Healthy Habits Challenge on Instagram and Facebook, encouraging Canadians to show how they practise good oral hygiene. When you see these posts, share in the comments how you care for your smile.
Find tips and information about dental care in Canada through these helpful resources:
