Tooth decay remains the most common oral health problem in children and young people living in South Yorkshire. School age children in Barnsley have very high levels of tooth decay. Almost 30% of five year old school children in Barnsley already have evidence of tooth decay, with each of those children having around four teeth affected.
Tooth decay is also the most common reason for hospital admissions in five to nine year olds. We can prevent tooth decay by reducing the amount of sugary foods and drinks we have and by increasing exposure to fluoride.
Supervised toothbrushing clubs
We're supporting early years and primary schools to set up supervised toothbrushing clubs.
The clubs help reduce tooth decay, especially in children in the most deprived areas who're at greatest risk. They encourage children to develop a brushing routine from an early age and also support home brushing.
Running a supervised toothbrushing club is a way that schools can demonstrate they're teaching dental health and the benefits of good oral hygiene as outlined in the statutory RSHE guidance.
The clubs are currently funded by us, with free training provided. If you'd like more information about setting up a supervised toothbrushing club, please email oralhealth@barnsley.gov.uk
Useful information
You can find more information about oral health on the following webpages:
- NHS - Top tips for children’s teeth
- NHS - Tooth decay
- NHS - How to keep your teeth clean
- NHS - Sugar swaps for kids
- NHS - How to cut down on sugar in your diet
- NHS - Mouth cancer
- Healthier Together - Improving the health and wellbeing of pregnant women, babies, children and young people in South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw.
Useful resources
- An oral health guide to promoting lifelong good habits and resources
- Food, drink and oral health resources for educational settings - These may also be useful other professionals and parent/carers.