Oral health

Healthy Teeth in Healthy Mouths, (1996), produced by the Health Education Board for Scotland, is an excellent resource for oral health. 

The correct method of brushing teeth is the main thrust of oral education. Current advice is that an adult should have responsibility for children's oral hygiene until the child is seven years old. 

Parents can be involved by sending out information about what is taught in class. They can also be asked to help their child complete a tooth-brushing chart at home. Rewards can then be issued on successful completion. 

The school dental hygienist may also be able to provide advice and practical assistance. 

Good oral health is about: 

• cleaning teeth thoroughly
• keeping gums healthy
• knowing how and when to brush teeth
• developing the skill of removing plaque from teeth
• knowing what sugars do to teeth
• having responsibility for own oral health.       

As they progress through the spiral curriculum, pupils should learn: 

• the types and functions of teeth
• the structure of a tooth
• ways to keep teeth and gums healthy
• the importance of regular dental check-ups.       

Resources

Find practical resources on oral health using our Resources search including the following:

• 'Give teeth a chance' leaflet
• 'Shine' leaflet for teenagers.