Tooth decay is easing in Bolton - but is still above average

Ten years ago, the average five-year-old in the borough had nearly three-and-a-half teeth which were decayed, missing or had fillings – more than double the national average of 1.52 teeth.

And while dental decay is still a problem for youngsters, the number of decayed, missing or filled teeth the average five-year-old now suffers from has now dropped to 1.85.

Bolton’s oral health experts say a range of schemes– including the ‘Brush Bus’, which parks up at schools so pupils can take part in supervised brushing – are behind the fall.

The Brush Bus is currently celebrating its tenth birthday and to celebrate, youngsters from 16 schools from across the borough will show off their health smiles at a ceremony next week.

Jean Holgate, manager of Bolton’s oral health team, said: “The programme is running in 60 establishments across Bolton.

“Schools, nurseries, playgroups, private day nurseries, special schools and Bolton’s healthy early years settings are all benefitting from the scheme, with more than 5,000 children brushing daily.

“The programme has three positive benefits – it teaches children dexterity when brushing, it gives them the benefit of brushing with a fluoride toothpaste if they are not brushing at home, and it allows them to brush with their own toothbrush if this is not always possible at home.

“The celebration event is being held to thank all the dedicated establishments which have been very supportive, keen and enthusiastic in continuing to promote the programme over the years.”

On May 20, two children from each school will attend a celebration at the Wellbeing Farm in Edgworth with teachers and staff from NHS Bolton Foundation Trust’s oral health department.

Jackie Bene, the trust’s chief executive, will also be on hand to give out commemorative awards.

The event has been organised to coincide with National Smile Month – an initiative which begins on May 18 and encourages people across the UK to maintain a healthy mouth.