Tooth decay is largely preventable, yet it remains a serious problem. Recent surveys show that over 20% of 5-year-old children have experienced tooth decay with, on average, more than 3 teeth affected.
Our dental team became so disillusioned with removing teeth from so many children that we launched our Brighter Smiles Campaign, backed by Cornwall Council and brand communications agency FUEL in 2015. With financial help from other valued supporters we set up toothbrushing clubs, applied fluoride varnish and delivered oral health education in primary schools, family hubs and nurseries across the county, particularly in areas of high tooth decay. We made a difference to the oral health of around 6,500 children each year and engaged with hundreds of teachers and parents/carers.
Although Brighter Smiles was superseded by Smarter Smiles in January 2024, generous funding from Seafarers Hospital Society for Newlyn Primary School and Nursery, and ITEC Xerox for Landewednack and Grade Ruan Primary Schools and Nurseries sees our oral health programme continuing there too until July 2024.