National Supervised Toothbrushing Programme
What is the Supervised Toothbrushing Programme
Launched nationally in March 2025, the supervised toothbrushing programme helps children aged 3-5 years brush their teeth daily with fluoride toothpaste in early years or school settings - under the guidance of trained staff.
Why is oral health in children important?
Tooth decay is preventable, yet it remains a common reason for children needing hospital treatment.
- 21,000 children aged five to nine needed hospital treatment for tooth decay in 2024/2025 (OHID).
- In Norfolk, over 1 in 5 five year olds had visible signs of dental decay in 2023/24 (fingertips data).
Poor oral health can cause pain, infection, missed school days, and long-term health problems. Early habits make a big difference - daily supervised brushing strengthens enamel (the hard shiny protective layer of teeth) and helps prevent decay.
Find out more on the Department for Education website and family advice via Just One Norfolk
Why join?
- Supports children's health and wellbeing
- Helps reduce school absences linked to dental pain
- Aligns with Ofsted's focus on health and development
- Fully funded and easy to implement with provider support
How to get involved in Norfolk
Norfolk Public Health has identified 86 settings to join this funded programme. If selected, you will hear from either:
Community Dental Services CIC: A group of dental professionals who deliver and promote oral health programmes and education in the Norfolk & Waveney region.
- Areas: Norwich, King's Lynn and West Norfolk, Breckland
- Email: [email protected]
John G Plummers: A group of dentist practices where people go to have their teeth cleaned and checked.
- Areas: Great Yarmouth and North Norfolk
- Email: [email protected]
This programme is in partnership with Norfolk County Council, Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board (a group that helps to plan health services for everyone in the area), the Department of Health & Social Care and Colgate-Palmolive (a large company that make oral care and hygiene items, such as toothpaste).
