WARWICKSHIRE, United Kingdom – The UK’s leading oral health charity is backing a criticised Government campaign to improve brushing among children, saying ‘poor oral health routines cause more dental problems than lack of dentists’.

The British Dental Health Foundation was speaking in defence of the multi-million pound ‘Brushing for Life’ initiative, launched to improve access to oral health education for parents of children in deprived areas.

Under the scheme families with young children who visit a health centre will receive a free oral health pack, including fluoride toothpaste, toothbrush and oral health leaflet. Qualified health professionals will also be on hand to give advice to parents on how to take care of their child’s teeth and oral health will become a vital part of general health promotion.

The scheme has been criticised in some quarters for failing to address the shortage of dentists. However, the Foundation believes critics are being short sighted.

Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, commented: “While there is no doubt that we need to improve dental access in the UK this is very much a separate issue – focusing on dental education for those that most need it.

“Most dental problems are the result of a poor oral health routine and children in deprived areas are more likely to need educating in this area. It is important to develop good habits in children as these will then be taken into adulthood.

“Children should brush twice a day with full fluoride toothpaste and cut down on sugary snacks between meals. Dental visits are also very important and children should visit their dentist regularly, as often as the dentist recommends.”

For a good brushing routine the Foundation recommends the following four tips.

1. Brush their teeth twice-a-day
   Twice-daily brushing is vital to maintaining good oral health. You may find it easiest to sit behind your child, cradling their chin in your hand to allow you to reach their top and bottom teeth.
   • Use a small-headed brush with soft bristles to allow you to reach the gaps between their teeth.
   • Brush in small circular movements and try to concentrate on one section at a time.
   • Don’t forget to brush gently behind the teeth and onto the gums.
   • You should make twice-daily brushing part of your child’s routine, and should supervise this until they are at least seven years-old.
2. Use fluoride toothpaste
   Fluoride is easily the most important ingredient in toothpaste. Fluoride works by strengthening the tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. The introduction of fluoride to toothpaste has led to a 50 percent reduction in the levels of decay we experience.Children should use a pea sized amount of full-fluoride toothpaste to ensure strong, healthy teeth.
3. Pick the right brush
   There are many different types of brushes available for children so it is important to pick the right one.
   When your child is first born you should use a finger swab to get them used to having their teeth cleaned.
   Once the first tooth comes through you can introduce a children’s sized toothbrush. Look for a brush that will get your child’s attention. Bright colours, children’s character handles, brushes with timers and colour changing brushes can all work wonders in getting children interested in looking after their teeth.
4. Change their toothbrush every 2-3 months
   Children and adults should change their toothbrush every 2-3 months. Old brushes do not remove plaque as effectively and the build-up of bacteria can lead to other problems such as gum disease.
   New toothbrushes can also help to keep your child interested in cleaning their teeth.

SOURCE: British Dental Health Foundation

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