The campaign, which runs from May 18 to June 17, will use the theme 'Brush for Health' to educate the public on the often underestimated importance of good oral healthcare to general wellbeing.

Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the Foundation, commented: "There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that people with gum disease are more at risk of heart disease, heart attacks, strokes, diabetes and, in the case of pregnant women, giving birth to underweight babies.

"However, gum disease is caused by poor oral healthcare and is, therefore, totally preventable.

"Almost everyone suffers from gum disease at some point in their lives but with a good oral healthcare routine they can easily prevent it from developing into something more serious – so brush twice-a-day with fluoride toothpaste, cut down how often you have sugary foods and drinks and visit the dentist regularly, as often as they recommend."