Suffolk schools to introduce supervised brushing schemes

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Nurseries and schools in Suffolk are preparing to introduce supervised brushing schemes in a bid to improve children’s oral health.

Dental problems are the most common cause of hospital admission for children aged between 5 and 9 years old, despite the fact that decay is almost always preventable. Now, as research suggests that more children are having teeth extracted under general anaesthetic than ever, community dental services in Suffolk are stepping up their efforts to tackle rising rates of decay.

As part of a new initiative, members of staff in nurseries and primary schools will be helping young children to brush their teeth properly.

The pilot scheme will launch in September and schools will be provided with toothbrushes and toothpaste. Members of staff from schools and nurseries will also receive training to enable them to help children do a thorough job. It is hoped that the scheme will ensure that every child brushes their teeth at least once a day, every child knows how to brush their teeth properly and every child understands why it’s important to clean their teeth.

Director for public health at Suffolk County Council, Abdul Razaq, explained that it is important that parents and children are aware of the measures they can take to eliminate dental problems, and that they understand the damaging impact a diet laden with sugar can have on children’s dental health.

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