Back in September 2021 all early years providers began following the new and revised Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS 2021). One of the new additions within the EYFS is the promotion of good oral health. You might wonder why this has been added?
Public Health England data shows that in 2015 a quarter of 5 year olds experienced tooth decay with 3 or 4 teeth on average being affected.
In 2015-2016 tooth decay was the most common reason for hospital admission for children aged 5 to 9 years-old and the sixth most common procedure in hospital for children aged 4 years and under. There were 7926 episodes of children under 5 having 1 or more teeth being extracted in hospital because of tooth decay.
Children suffering with toothache or needing treatment may have pain or an infection. This can lead to other issues for example, eating, sleeping, socialising and learning being impacted.
The data is certainly concerning which is why the government want early years providers to promote oral health alongside self-care, healthy eating and physical development.
The aim of the new requirement is to reduce tooth decay in children. There is no set method for settings to promote oral health but it is vital that we promote the welfare of the children in our care. Although the changes to the EYFS require settings to promote oral health it's important that parents/ carers are also involved.
How to reduce tooth decay
Reduce the consumption of sugary and acidic food and drink, preferably keeping them to meal times
Support children to be aware of what good oral hygiene means
Brush teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
Visit the dentist regularly
Top tips for children's oral health
Eating habits are shaped when children are very young and can last a lifetime
Eating healthy food that is low in sugar helps to prevent tooth decay and also encourages good general health
Eating chopped fruit and vegetables does not cause tooth decay. Bread, breadsticks, rice cakes, cheese, natural yoghurt or fromage frais are all tooth friendly snacks
Dried fruit given as a snack (such as raisins) increases the risk of tooth decay
Dipping dummies into honey or sugary drinks can cause tooth decay
Water and milk are the best tooth-friendly drinks
Freshly prepared fruit juice and smoothies should be given only once a day and with a meal as they contain a high concentration of sugar
Ask for sugar free medicines where possible
Introduce your child to a free-flowing beaker from 6 months of age and aim to discontinue the use of bottles at 12 months
Children aged under 3 should use just a smear of toothpaste
Children aged 3 to 6 years of age should use a pea sized amount of toothpaste
Top tips to make brushing fun thanks to Oral-B
Role play with a story - Get creative and make up a story that puts brushing at the heart of the action! Maybe aliens have invaded planet teeth and the only way to save it is to defend it by brushing. Perhaps each tooth is a car that needs cleaning, or what if evil dragons have invaded the teeth kingdom and only brushing can fight them off?
Have a bathroom dance party - Create a playlist of your kids’ favourite songs and turn brush time into a brushing dance party that happens twice a day. Pick any song and brush away as it plays for two minutes, everyone can dance along!
Pick your own toothbrush - Let your child pick their favourite toothbrush to use during brush time, discover the Oral-B Kids product range which consists of a variety of manual and power toothbrushes featuring favourite Disney characters. From Star Wars to Frozen to Cars, there’s a kid’s electric toothbrush to help up their brushing game.
Families that brush together, smile together - Turn brushing time into a group activity that the whole family can do together. Make it into a ‘no-miss’ daily event that everyone (including parents and guardians!) looks forward to taking part in each day.
Make a reward chart - Get crafty and design a home-made star chart, every day your kid completes brushing - they earn a sticker for the chart. When they earn a certain number of stickers they win a prize!
Role play with a favourite toy - Make sure your kids favourite cuddly toy or doll also has its own toothbrush and joins in on brush time every day. Using the toy will explain why it’s so important to look after teeth, and help show children what to do. When kids see their beloved toy having their teeth brushed, it will motivate them to do the same.
Finding a Dentist If you unsure of your local family dentist, you can use the NHS website to find your closest one: https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-dentist
Below are some useful links that will further support you with maintaining good oral health for your child.
Oral Health Foundation have a a team of fully trained experts. You can contact them by visiting their website: https://www.dentalhealth.org
Or calling them on 01788 539780
Resources
Blog written by Hazel Adamson (Preschool Manager)