Patients concerned about needing to see an emergency dentist could be interested to hear that chocolate has topped a poll of things that make people smile.
Research conducted by the British Dental Health Foundation (BDHF) revealed that 60 per cent of female respondents named the sweet their favourite choice.
Carried out to mark the end of this year's National Smile Month, experts discovered that seeing a loved one was the second most popular activity.
With chocolate topping the list for the majority of women, male respondents were found to favour a roast dinner to the sugary snack.
Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the BDHF, said: "Chocolate may not be the best thing for your teeth, but if everyone follows the Foundation's three rules for good oral health, it's something that we can all continue to enjoy."
The launch of the campaign, which ended yesterday, was held at the Houses of Parliament last month in a bid to encourage people to adopt effective oral health routines.