Brushing up on early years oral hygiene!
The Birmingham Community Healthcare oral health improvement team has launched a supervised toothbrushing programme in early years nurseries and primary schools.
The targeted programme is being delivered in partnership with public health teams in Sandwell, Dudley, Walsall and Birmingham as part of a system-wide commitment to tackle health inequalities.
The evidence-based initiative aims to reduce childhood tooth decay by training nursery and primary school staff to supervise children brushing their teeth at nursery, as part of a daily, safe routine, supporting the development of toothbrushing as a life skill and daily habit.
Oral health improvement lead Julie Smith said: “A designated member of the team is attached to each of the targeted nurseries to deliver training, provide the toothbrush racks, toothbrushes and toothpaste.
“Each child is also given a pack containing a toothbrush and toothpaste for them to take home so that they can brush their teeth with their parents or carers.
“Staff in the oral health improvement team have received positive feedback from pupils, nursery staff and parents following the introduction of the supervised toothbrushing programme.”
The supervised toothbrushing programme is a proven intervention which will promote and support positive toothbrushing routines across Birmingham and the Black Country.
Key messages to share with families:
- parents/carers to brush their children’s teeth twice a day, especially last thi ng at night; start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears;
- children need support with toothbrushing until they are around seven years old. (some children may need help with their toothbrushing beyond that age);
- use a family strength fluoride toothpaste that contains 1350-1500 ppm fluoride - check the list of ingredients on the toothpaste packaging;
- for children under 3 years old, use a smear of family toothpaste. For children 3 years and over, use a pea-sized amount. Encourage them to spit out after brushing, but not to rinse their mouth out with water or mouthwash;
- try to make toothbrushing fun – use songs, apps or timers and brush together.
- dental treatment is free for children under the age of 18- take your children for regular check ups.
- call 111 for help if there is a dental emergency and you do not have a regular dentist.
Find a dentist on the NHS website.
Find out more about our schools programme - watch our Brilliant Brushers video below!