Supervised toothbrushing scheme launched to combat tooth decay in young children

A new scheme is being launched to encourage good brushing habits in 3-5-year-olds.

The Super Smiles Supervised Toothbrushing Scheme, running in nurseries and schools in Hyde and Denton, started this September. Under the supervision of trained staff, children will brush their teeth with fluoride toothpaste once a day in a classroom.

The programme aims to create a supportive environment for young children to learn the importance of brushing their teeth from an early age while also reinforcing the habit of brushing at home. To further support the initiative, each participating child will receive a dental pack containing a toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and helpful information on maintaining good oral hygiene.

Tooth decay remains the most common disease affecting young children. In Tameside, a third of 5-year-olds have experienced tooth decay, leading to an average of three missed days from school or nursery each year. Daily brushing at school or nursery has been proven to be effective in preventing tooth decay and helps children establish lifelong habits for good oral health.

It is recommended that children brush their teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste—once at bedtime and one or more additional times. Parents and carers should use no more than a pea-sized amount of toothpaste for children aged 3 to 6 years old and encourage them to spit out after brushing rather than rinsing with water. Fun tools like apps, timers, songs, and videos can also help encourage young children to brush for the recommended two minutes.

Cllr Eleanor Wills, Tameside Council Executive Member for Population Health and Wellbeing, said: “We know how important oral health is, especially in the early years of a child's development. Tooth decay can have a significant impact on a child’s overall health, school attendance, and quality of life. The Super Smiles scheme is about giving our youngest residents the best start in life by ensuring they develop healthy brushing habits that will stay with them for years to come.”

Through initiatives like Super Smiles, Tameside Council is taking proactive steps to promote oral health and ensure a brighter, healthier future for its youngest residents.

For more information on the Super Smiles scheme, please contact publichealth.enquiries@tameside.gov.uk.