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Why oral health is included in the EYFS framework

This has been included because good oral health habits need to be formed from the earliest age. Tooth decay is largely preventable, but it’s still a serious problem among young children.

Nearly a quarter of 5 year olds in England have tooth decay, with 3 or 4 teeth affected on average. Tooth extraction is one of the most common procedures for children under 6 in hospital. Extraction is also the most common reason for hospital admission for children aged 6 to 10. Children from more deprived backgrounds are more likely to have tooth decay.

Children who have toothache, or need treatment, may have pain or infections. This can have a wider effect and lead to problems eating, sleeping, socialising and learning.

Promoting oral health

You can decide how you promote oral health, based on what works best in your setting. Ideally, you can link oral health to things you already promote, like self-care, healthy eating and physical development.

Be playful with children about oral health. Suggest they brush the teeth of dolls or soft toys. Read stories about teeth and smiles. Talk about healthy food and drinks that help to grow strong teeth, and those that do not. Get them to look at their own and each other’s teeth, using mirrors.

Talk about tooth brushing with fluoride toothpaste as children arrive. Give parents and carers knowledge and practical advice to support oral health at home.

You can also support children’s awareness of oral health by:

• visiting dentists or having them visit you

• providing or showing toothbrushing kits

• showing toothbrushing routines

Supervised toothbrushing

You can decide if you want to bring in supervised toothbrushing. There are various schemes that support this. Speak to your local authority about it and read the supervised tooth brushing programme toolkit from Public Health England.

This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.

Free ‘Teeth and Oral Health’ Resources

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‘Dentist’ resources from our ‘People Who Help Us’ page…

‘Teeth’ resources available in our ‘The Human Body’ Topic

‘Teeth and Oral Health’ Resources available in our ‘Get Organised’ sections…

Related Special Dates

National Toothache Day

National Toothache Day isn’t a widely recognised or official observance in the UK, but it is an informal awareness day that exists to highlight the importance of dental health and encourage people to prevent and address oral issues like toothaches. While the date is most commonly observed on 9th February, it has more recognition in other countries, such as the United States, than in the UK.

Purpose of National Toothache Day

• Raise Awareness:

  • It serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene to prevent toothaches and other dental problems.

• Encourage Action:

  • People are encouraged to visit the dentist regularly, avoid neglecting oral pain, and address dental issues early.

• Education:

  • Promotes understanding of the causes of toothaches, such as cavities, gum disease, or infections, and the steps needed to avoid them.

Common Causes of Toothaches Highlighted on this Day

1. Tooth Decay:

   • Caused by plaque build-up and acid erosion.

2. Gum Disease:

   • Inflamed gums can lead to pain and tooth sensitivity.

3. Dental Abscesses:

   • Infections in the tooth or gum.

4. Teeth Grinding:

   • Can wear down enamel and cause jaw pain.

5. Sensitivity:

   • Exacerbated by cold, heat, or sweet foods.

Why It’s Relevant

Although it may seem like a humorous observance, National Toothache Day encourages serious action to prevent the pain, discomfort, and long-term health effects of poor oral hygiene. For many, it’s a light-hearted prompt to schedule a dental check-up or assess their oral care routine.

If toothaches or dental health issues are a recurring problem, it’s a good opportunity to review your habits and address any potential underlying causes!

Related ‘Health & Hygiene’ Topic & Awareness Date Pages you may be interested in…

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