Recent data has shown that the Scottish Childsmile programme saves nearly £5 million a year in treatments costs. The statement was made by Scotland’s public health minister Maureen Watt. She explained that the savings have been made due to a decrease in the amount of fillings, general anaesthetics and extractions required.

What Is The Childsmile Scheme?

Childsmile is a national programme that was created in Scotland to improve the oral health of children and improve access to dental services. The scheme was created in 2008 and works in partnership with various schools, nurseries and dental practices.

How Has Childsmile Helped Improve Children’s Dental Health In Scotland?

The Childmsile programme has not only helped save millions of pounds but it has also helped improve the dental health of children in Scotland. Since the scheme was introduced, Scotland has seen a decrease in the number of primary one children with ‘obvious decay experience’ from 46% to 32%. 92% of Scottish children are also now registered to a NHS dentist. The results of the scheme have shown what a focus on prevention and education can achieve.

NHS Childsmile Programme and Brite Dental

Brite Dental is happy to be a part of Scotland’s Childsmile programme. As part of the Childsmile scheme, children receive free toothbrushes, toothpaste and two fluoride varnish applications per year. Children attending nursery and those who attend a primary school in a deprived area are also offered daily supervised brushing. A key focus of the programme is to prevent the development of dental decay which is important to avoid the need for root canal treatment. Brite Dental are proud to help children learn about their dental health and ways to improve it.

Brite Dental is an NHS and cosmetic dentistry dental practice. To find out more, or to register, contact us today.