Protect your child’s smile with free toothbrushes and paste

Families in Wolverhampton are being invited to pick up free children's toothbrushes and toothpaste from locations around the city over the next few months.They are being provided as part of a drive by the City of Wolverhampton Council and The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust to improve oral hygiene, particularly among youngsters.

Free child-specific toothbrushes and toothpaste are available from Central Library, the Best Start Family Hub in Graiseley, WV Active Bilston-Bert Williams, WV Active Central and WV Active Aldersley. 

Councillor Obaida Ahmed, the council's Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Community, said: "Tooth decay is the most common oral disease affecting children and young people in England, yet it is largely preventable. 

"Poor oral health can make it harder for children to be ready for school and can lead to them missing lessons because of tooth pain or infection. It can affect their ability to eat, smile and spend time with others, which can harm their confidence and wellbeing.

"It also puts extra pressure on emergency dental services. Nearly 90% of hospital tooth extractions in children under five are caused by preventable tooth decay.

"We want to give every child the healthy smile they deserve and are delighted to be working with the NHS to make free toothbrushes and toothpaste available to families across the city, particularly those who are struggling with the rising cost of living.”

The council and the NHS have also teamed up to develop an online toolkit to help promote good oral health. Available at www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/oralhealthtoolkit, it is aimed at a range of professionals working with children and young people in health and education settings.