Partners:
NHS England and Peninsula Dental Social Enterprise
Project:
Supervised Toothbrushing Programme
Establishing regular toothbrushing in schools and nurseries across Devon, helping children to brush effectively and be proud of a healthy and happy smile. We trained 512 staff members across 242 early years settings to supervise children as they brush daily in school/nursery. Approximately 4,900 children took part in the programme.
Poor oral health and especially tooth decay is the main reason children are admitted into hospital for the removal of teeth under general anaesthetic. The impact of poor oral health does not only affect the child, but has an impact on the parents, schools, health authorities and the economy.
Tooth decay can cause sleepless nights, lack of concentration, time off school and work for parents and poor eating habits to name a few.
This programme is designed to train early years staff to have the knowledge and confidence to supervise children as they brush in schools and nurseries. All the equipment, policies and procedures are supplied along with support from a qualified oral health educator. Quality assurance audits are in place to ensure compliance and regulation.
The programme also informs parents about oral health, helping them to establish effective tooth brushing routines for their children. Each child receives a home pack, which includes information for parents.
“A great scheme, well delivered. Our child has loved the toothbrush, toothpaste and timer in the home pack. Our child is now able to articulate how to brush their teeth and is more willing to do so.”
Parent of child participating in the programme
“Our son loves brushing his teeth and has taught his little sister how she needs to brush for 2 minutes and has shown her how to do it. Definitely happy we took part in the programme.”
Parent of child participating in the programme
“My daughter is very proud of her special toothbrush/toothpaste and timer that she got from nursery, on bringing it home she was counting down to bedtime to be able to use it. Toothbrushing has become more exciting, and she’s learnt the ‘right’ technique to use which makes her feel happier brushing.”
Parent of child participating in the programme
