Supervised toothbrushing to be rolled out in deprived areas

A supervised toothbrushing programme is to be rolled out to children in England’s most deprived areas.

The scheme will be rolled out in early years settings and primary schools from April and will be targeted to 600,000 children each year.

Local authorities will get £11m of funding to identify the schools and nurseries most in need, encourage them to sign up and deliver the programme.

Health minister Stephen Kinnock said: “It is shocking that a third of five-year-olds in the most deprived areas have experience of tooth decay - something we know can have a lifelong impact on their health. 

“We’re already rolling out 700,000 extra urgent dental appointments for those who need treatment, but by focusing on prevention we can help children have the best start in life.” 

Early education minister Stephen Morgan added that the government is working hard to “break the unfair link” between background and opportunity.

“We have already started urgent work to increase the affordability and accessibility of high-quality early years and extend early learning support,” he said.

“But we know school-readiness goes beyond what is taught in a classroom.”

Good oral health ‘can improve children’s lives’

The announcement has been hailed by Jason Wong, England’s chief dental officer, who said brushing your teeth twice a day is one of the best ways to prevent tooth decay and other oral health issues.

“Having strong healthy teeth can have a hugely positive impact on a child’s life,” he said.

“We’re thrilled that the government is working with the NHS to expand access to pivotal supervised toothbrushing programmes in schools.”

Mr Wong added that all children are entitled to free dental care through the NHS.

Tooth decay more common in deprived areas

According to the Department of Health and Social Care, one in four five-year-olds in England have experienced tooth decay.

But figures show that there are higher rates of up to one in three in more deprived areas.

Treatment for decayed teeth is also the most common reason why five to nine-year-olds are admitted to hospital.