Top Tips
for Providers
Open Communication
Transparent discussions with the setting are key to understanding their context and needs in order to provide the required support for implemention
Build Rapport
Having a good relationship with the setting goes a long way and can help with uptake and sustaining the supervised toothbrushing programme.
Identify Other Early Years Programmes
For consistent messaging and improved engagement try to link the supervised toothbrushing programme with other local initiatives, such as family hubs, health visitors, baby and toddler and playgroups, etc.
Local Dental Data
In addition to showcasing national dental data, using local data on levels of dental decay is a good way to highlight to settings the need for a toothbrushing programme.
Consider Language Barriers
Identify any existing language barriers with families and provide information in different languages to be more inclusive.
Consider Cultural barriers
Identify any potential cultural barriers such as concerns about toothpaste ingredients containing animal derivatives and address these concerns in the information for parents to help improve participation rates.
Ordering and delivering supplies
Consider the appropriateness, cost-effectiveness and sustainability when deciding on how to order and deliver supplies to settings. Agree with the setting how much notice you need to be given if they require more stock.
On-going support
Once the supervised toothbrushing programme has been set-up it is important that settings are able to contact someone for advice and support. Consider setting up a generic email address, (rather than a personal one for permanence) that they can contact you on if needed.
Oral health in the curriculum
Integrate oral health activities into the curriculum. Use learning activities that relate to curriculum targets whilst also delivering key oral health messages.
Oral health champion
There is a benefit to appointing an oral health champion. They can aid in cascading information and training to the rest of the staff. They can also be your established point of contact. Remember to also put in place contingency plans in case staff are absent or leave the setting.
An example job specification can be found here
Oral health
award scheme
Consider setting up an award scheme to encourage continued delivery of good oral health messaging in the setting. Here is an example of a successful award scheme: smile4life
