The Childsmile programme focuses on improving the oral health of children in Scotland through targeted interventions such as supervised toothbrushing, fluoride varnish applications, and oral health education.
Health Improvement Practitioners play a crucial role in delivering these interventions within schools and community settings, promoting good oral hygiene habits and preventing dental issues at an early age. By participating in the Childsmile programme, Health Improvement Practitioners contribute to the promotion of lifelong oral health and overall well-being in children, setting the foundation for healthy habits that can last a lifetime.
Childsmile works with all nurseries and childminders in Renfrewshire to deliver a daily supervised toothbrushing programme.
- We try to make toothbrushing as straight forward as possible
- Provide toothbrushes and toothbrushing racks which have matching symbols. Storing toothbrushes in this way prevents cross infection and helps the children to identify their toothbrush easily.
- Children, depending on their age and ability, may collect their own toothbrush and toothpaste, and brush their teeth in their groups or individually
- The toothbrushing supervisor receives Childsmile training to ensure that the Toothbrushing Programme is delivered in a safe way and in accordance with the guidance provided
- The Childsmile team will visit twice a year to monitor and support the establishment with this process
Toothbrushing standards have been developed in conjunction with the Care Inspectorate and Public Health Scotland to ensure that the process of delivering the Childsmile Toothbrushing Programme in schools and nurseries is safe and appropriate.
Key Oral Health Messages
1. Establish good brushing routines
How to help your toddler to brush their teeth | Parent Club
It may also be good to mention the Toothbrushing packs that are sent home from nurseries twice yearly to support brushing in the home twice a day with a 1450ppmf toothpaste as per recommendations.
2. Visit a dentist at least once a year
Finding an NHS dentist
If you're looking for a dentist in your area, you can search for dentists on the NHS inform website
3. Keep sugary foods to meal times
Are you sugar smart?
Learn more about how to be sugar smart, and download the Food Scanner app
There is also the Childsmile parents and carers section within the website which may be good to share at the end of the key messages.
Further Information
For further information on caring for your children's teeth and getting the best oral healthcare please see the following link:
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