North Devon MP welcomes expanded toothbrushing scheme for schools

The MP for North Devon, Ian Roome, has welcomed the announcement that the supervised toothbrushing scheme, the Big Brush Club, will now be available in all Devon primary schools with an early years nursery, pre-school, or reception class.

The Big Brush Club, a supervised toothbrushing initiative funded by the NHS, was previously only available in parts of Devon, Plymouth, and Torbay. 

However, it is now being expanded to all primary schools in Devon, making it the first area in the South West to implement the scheme across the entire region.

Mr Roome, who has long advocated for the expansion of oral health initiatives in North Devon schools, said: “This is one of the big things we have been pushing for in the North Devon Dental Steering Group with members of NHS Devon, the ICB, dentists, and the Council – so I am delighted to hear that it is now happening!”

“Having supervised toothbrushing rolled out to all schools in North Devon will make a very meaningful difference. Good oral hygiene habits are learned from a young age, and this initiative will not only benefit children directly but also help reinforce positive routines at home.”

“The North Devon Dental Steering Group will continue to advocate for oral health schemes like this and improved access to NHS dental services. The situation with NHS dentistry in North Devon is dire, and I will keep pushing for improvements.”

The scheme is funded by NHS Devon, in partnership with Devon County Council, Plymouth City Council, and Torbay Council, and delivered by dental provider At Home Dental.

Jonathan Bouwer-Davies, Clinical Dental Adviser for NHS Devon, said: “We know a quarter of five-year-olds have tooth decay which can, in severe cases, lead to children needing hospital treatment. Understanding how to brush your teeth properly is an important life skill for children. It takes schools five minutes a day, and the benefits can be life-long.”

Under the scheme, teachers hold short, daily toothbrushing sessions for three- to five-year-olds alongside lessons about self-care, healthy eating, and reducing sugar intake.

Rapper and health activist Professor Green is also helping the NHS raise awareness among families about the importance of children looking after their teeth by launching an exciting competition for all primary schools across the South West. 

Every child aged between three and five has been invited to take part in the competition, which includes music and colouring categories. 

The competition will run until the end of May, offering children the chance to win fantastic prizes for both themselves and their schools. 

Professor Green will join the judging panel for the competition.