Childsmile

Childsmile, run by the Scottish government, commenced in 2006 against a background of the poor oral health and extensive oral health inequalities observed in children in Scotland, with the aim of improving the oral health of all children and also with emphasis on the more deprived groups in society.

Childsmile consists of three distinct components extending from birth to adolescence :

• A core programme – including universal daily tooth brushing in all nurseries and targeted tooth brushing in primary schools;
• A targeted nursery and school fluoride varnish programme; and
• A universal practice programme aimed at newborn children.

The project is government funded, and has been evaluated. Findings clearly demonstrate that the cost of the programme is significantly lower than the cost savings as a result of the reduction in treatment needs for participating children. A demonstrated reduction in oral health inequalities can be linked to the programme.