Westminster City Council is launching a new oral health campaign aimed at children aged one to nine.
The campaign includes a new animation, ‘The Tale of Triumph over Terrible Teeth’ (below), aimed at educating young children on the importance of their oral health.
The video is now being shown across schools in Westminster and children can follow the story of Ravi and the toothfairy.
‘It is so important that we lead the way and address this problem in Westminster,’ Councillor Heather Acton, Westminster City Council Cabinet Member for Adult Social Services and Public Health, said.
‘We are aiming to reach children and taking the time to get the message across in an innovative way, working with schools, dentists and doctors.
‘If your baby’s first teeth have appeared, it is time to visit the dentist.
‘This is free and getting into a routine of taking your children to the dentist makes a real difference.’
Tooth decay
Tooth decay is the biggest reason for non-emergency visits to hospital for children in Westminster.
According to www.westminster.gov.uk, 35% of five-year-old children living in Westminster have at least one decayed tooth, compared with 25% across the rest of England.
The council believes there are cultural and transitory barriers to registering with a dentist early and a lack of awareness of dental health resources, which is why they have launched this educational video.
‘Poor oral health habits can lead to pain and avoidable tooth decay, and even to hospital admissions,’ Suresh Chande, chair of the Kensington, Chelsea and Westminster Local Dental Committee, said.
‘Dental professionals know that good oral health habits are key to ensuring good oral health and this is why we are pleased to see Westminster City Council addressing avoidable tooth decay in an innovative and engaging manner.’
