Services > Families with Children under 4 > Supervised Toothbrushing

Supervised Toothbrushing

This programme aims to improve the oral health of children in the community by providing children’s centres, nurseries, schools, childminders with training and the necessary equipment for supervised tooth brushing.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Telephone: 01253 476789
Email: Betterstart.cecd@nspcc.org.uk
Location: Early Years Settings and Children’s Centres.

What is it?

Better Start Community Connectors provide training on how to brush correctly and how to make it a fun activity that engages children.

Supervised toothbrushing (STB) is where children are supervised by setting staff to brush their teeth once per day. It is not intended to replace toothbrushing at home, but rather to supplement it.

  • Establishing positive oral hygiene practices in early years will help children maintain good oral health throughout life, reducing their risk of decay and tooth extractions.
  • Tooth decay in baby teeth can have a detrimental effect on learning, self-esteem and the overall quality of life of a child.
  • This is a priority for Blackpool as almost a third (31.2%) of children aged 5 have some visually obvious dental decay.
  • There is also a misconception amongst some families that brushing baby teeth is unnecessary.

The Office for Health Improvement and Disparities has recommended supervised toothbrushing schemes due to the strong evidence base for their effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.

Who is it for?

  • STB is funded by Blackpool Public Health and Blackpool Better Start is supporting the delivery.
  • Blackpool Better Start can support your setting with tailored training and support with the delivery of oral health activities and sessions.
  • STB is available for all childminders, nursery and reception children in Blackpool.
  • Settings will receive, for FREE, the required training (including infection control).
  • Storage racks and enough toothpaste and toothbrushes for a year.

Is a referral required?

Joining the scheme is a simple process. Please email Betterstart.cecd@nspcc.org.uk and we can discuss how we can support you on your Supervised Toothbrushing journey.