Oral health for secondary school age

Looking after teeth and gums

Oral health is part of the national curriculum in Key Stage 3 and 4 science, and Relationships Education, Relationships and Sexual Education (RSE) and Health Education

Keeping our teeth healthy – Change4Life KS2 science lesson

Toothbrushing

Use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste containing 1350-1500ppm fluoride. Most ‘own brand’ supermarket toothpastes are suitable and more affordable
Brush all the surfaces of the teeth and gumline in small circles for around 2 minutes, twice a day - just before bedtime and at another time that fits in with your routine
Spit out the toothpaste and do not rinse!

Diet

Reduce the amount and frequency of having foods and drinks that contain sugar, only give sweet foods including dried fruit at mealtimes
Squashes sweetened with sugar, fizzy drinks, soft drinks and juice drinks have no place in a child’s daily diet
Limit the amount of fruit juice and/or smoothies your child drinks to a maximum of 150 mls (one portion) in total per day and drink it with meals to reduce the risk of tooth decay
Always ask for sugar-free medicines

Visting the dentist

Adults should have a regular check-up at the dentist at least once every 2 years, and children at least once a year
NHS dental treatment is free for children under 18 or under 19 and in qualifying full-time education
Some adults can also get free NHS dental treatment
Going to the dentist regularly helps the child become familiar with the dental environment, and enables the dentist to pick up on any problems as early as possible
The dentist can paint fluoride varnish on children’s teeth to protect them from tooth decay. All children over 3 should have it applied at least twice a year, and it may also be used for younger children at high risk of tooth decay. Parents/carers should ask their dentist about fluoride varnish