Information for Parents
Helpful tips for parents to promote toothbrushing at home
Information for parents about supervised toothbrushing programmes
What is a supervised toothbrushing programme?
It is a programme where children, usually aged 3 to 7 years old, brush their teeth daily at the nursery or school they go to. Children brush their own teeth while supervised by a trained member of staff. Each child has their own toothbrush and they are given the right amount of fluoride toothpaste to use. After brushing, they can use a paper towel to wipe off any extra toothpaste from their mouths.
Maintaining good oral health is part of the national curriculum for children in nurseries and schools.
This programme is free for parents.
Why it’s important?
Tooth decay is the most common dental problem in children and can cause toothache and problems with eating, sleeping and learning. It also can stop children from doing things they enjoy during their daily life.
Daily toothbrushing programmes in educational settings (nurseries and schools) have been shown to be effective in reducing tooth decay. They help children to brush their teeth at a very young age and be a part of their daily routine. They can also make toothbrushing at home easier too! Research has shown that children who start toothbrushing when they are very young are less likely to develop tooth decay throughout their lives.
Are these programmes safe for children?
These programmes are safe. The staff who are involved are trained and follow a procedure to maintain appropriate hygiene practices.
What parents need to do for their children to be take part?
If your child’s nursery/school has signed up for a supervised toothbrushing programme you will receive an information and consent form. Your child will only take part in this programme if you completed and returned the consent form. You do not need to provide any toothbrushing supplies such as toothpastes and toothbrushes as the supplies will be provided.
Home toothbrushing
Even if your child has joined a supervised toothbrushing programme at their nursery/school, it is still important for your child to brush their teeth at home. Here are helpful tips on how to brush your child’s teeth at home:
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Brush all surfaces of the teeth and gumline in small circles for about 2 minutes, just before bedtime and another time that fits with your routine.
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Children under 3 should use a smear of toothpaste containing no less than 1000ppm fluoride.
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Children aged 3 and over should use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste containing more than 1000ppm fluoride. Use a toothpaste containing 1350-1500ppm fluoride for maximum prevention.
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Most ‘own brand’ supermarket toothpastes are suitable and more affordable.
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Encourage your child to spit out the toothpaste. Do NOT rinse with water. Rinsing washes away the fluoride so it can’t do its job.​
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The parent/carer should assist with brushing until their child is at least 7 years old.​
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The parent/carer should sit their child on their knee or stand behind them and cradle their head while brushing.​
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Allow babies to play with a toothbrush from an early age, they will get used to the feel of it in their mouth.​
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Children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and/or Disability) may need opportunities to play and explore with a toothbrush to encourage them to use it as described. Allow your child to touch their face with it, use different tasting toothpaste to try and find one your child like.
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Useful resources regarding children’s oral health, including BSPD resources that developed in different languages, are available by clicking the buttons below. Wider oral health resources can be found here.
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Thank you for Wakefield Council Oral Health Team for using their resources