Councillors call for supervised brushing in Norfolk schools
Councillors in Norfolk have called for supervised brushing sessions in schools to reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Liberal Democrat councillor for North Walsham East, Lucy Shires, suggests that supervised brushing for schoolchildren could help to improve standards of oral health and lower rates of decay. Speaking at a recent meeting, Ms Shires used the example of a scheme in Calderdale. The project in Yorkshire involved nineteen local schools, which operated supervised brushing for 3-5-year-olds.
A review of the Calderdale programme, which cost £4 per child in the first year and £2 per child the following year, found that the scheme had a positive impact on oral health standards among the group.
Ms Shires proposed similar programmes in Norfolk, which is one of the worst-affected areas in the country in terms of NHS dental access. A BBC investigation revealed that Norfolk was one of a handful of places where it was impossible to find any available NHS adult places.
During a county council cabinet meeting, Ms Shires suggested that brushing schemes should be trialled in Norfolk schools, describing them as a “relatively cheap” project that can produce “enormous lifelong benefits for children” and save the NHS money. Tooth decay is currently the most common reason children in the UK undergo treatment in hospital.
In other parts of the country, schools are already providing supervised brushing for young children, ensuring that they clean their teeth at least once a day. Brushing is the best way to remove bacteria and food debris to prevent plaque formation and reduce the risk of cavities.
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