PARENTS URGED TO BRUSH UP ON BABY TOOTH CARE IN SALFORD

Salford children under five are learning the right way to brush and care for their teeth to prevent tooth decay.

It’s part of the city’s fight back against ‘totally preventable’ tooth decay and has been welcomed by parents and carers. Half of Salford’s five-year-olds have tooth decay which can cause them pain and affect their confidence and performance in school. 

Salford City Council’s public health team and Public Health England have joined together to launch the teeth brushing sessions in primary schools as part of a package of measures to tackle the issue. 

Other initiatives include working with parents and children on how to prevent tooth decay in the first place by reducing frequency and amount of sugar children eat or drink. 

The two organisations are also working with parents on healthy eating for babies and toddlers and increasing the number of under-fives visiting the dentist for prevention advice and fluoride treatment. 

Councillor Gina Reynolds, lead member for adult services, health and well-being, said:

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“Children can’t be at their best if their mouths are painful. People may think baby teeth don’t matter because they will fall out but they do. 

“There is no need for children to experience tooth decay and pain. It is totally preventable with the right care.” 

The school programme is led by staff and teachers in nurseries and reception classes and shows the children how to brush properly using games and songs. They will also be teaching youngsters how to choose sugar-free snacks to prevent tooth decay. 

Councillor Lisa Stone, lead member for children’s and young people’s services, added:

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“As the mother of a young child, I know how difficult it can be to get into a regular habit brushing teeth twice a day and limit how many times a day kids have sugary treats, especially when there is so much temptation for them, but it’s so important that we work to set up good habits for life during these early years. 

"We can avoid young children having to have fillings or teeth removed by regular brushing and limiting sugary treats. I want all Salford children to have healthy mouths so they can get on with enjoying their childhood and this is a great lesson for them to learn.” 

Children are also being given toothbrush and toothpaste packs to carry on the good habits at home. Brushing twice each day will help them keep their mouths healthy. 

PDFS of leaflets are available at: 

A tooth brushing chart and information for your children 
www.salford.gov.uk/media/392321/childrens-oral-care-a5-flyer.pdf
  
Oral health information leaflet for parents/carers
www.salford.gov.uk/media/392322/childrens-oral-care-a5-leaflet.pdf