Reading Launches Free Toothbrushing Programme for 1,800 Children to Tackle Rising Rates of Tooth Decay

Over a third of 5-year-olds in Reading suffer from tooth decay - significantly above the national average. To combat this, 1,800 children across the borough will receive free toothpaste, toothbrushes and daily supervised brushing sessions.

Latest data shows that rates of child tooth decay in Reading have risen since 2019. Furthermore, a recent report from Healthwatch Reading revealed several barriers to dental care, including limited awareness of dental services among parents and language barriers.

The free supervised toothbrushing programme, funded by the national government and Reading Borough Council's Public Health Grant, will be implemented across 44 nurseries and schools from early 2026 in the most deprived areas of Reading.

The sessions will build healthy toothbrushing habits and educate children aged 3-5 years in early years settings, four children centres and in special needs schools up to the age of 10, on how to look after their teeth. Children will brush their own teeth daily under teacher supervision, with each session taking around 5-10 minutes.

Each educational setting will receive training from Community Dental Services CIC (CDS), a social enterprise which has over a decade's worth of experience in community dental services and oral health improvement programmes, plus individual toothbrush racks and all cleaning materials and supplies at no cost.

Children will take part in interactive sessions using puppets, tooth models and stories, learning brushing techniques and tooth-friendly dietary habits. Parents will also be able to attend information sessions on how to find a dentist, NHS dental entitlements and how to continue healthy brushing habits at home.

The programme includes specialist support for children with additional needs, including sensory-friendly toothbrushes and non-foaming toothpaste, with key information translated into multiple languages and easy-read formats. Nurseries and schools will also work towards 'Healthy Smiles Plus' accreditation, introducing tooth-friendly celebrations and snacks.

Lead Member for Public Health, Councillor Rachel Eden said:

""Getting dental hygiene right from the earliest age is so important for children and we know parents and carers want help to get this right.  This fantastic new programme, funded by the government and Reading council, will support our families in giving their children the best possible start to good oral health. With everything provided completely free - from toothbrushes to training – every child can have the chance to develop healthy habits."

Jennifer Baitup, Strategic Oral Health Lead for CDS added:

“Tooth decay is the leading cause of child hospital admissions in England, and is a serious health issue that can have a lasting impact on children’s oral and general health. It affects their confidence, wellbeing, and ability to take part in everyday activities such as attending nursery or school - yet it is entirely preventable. By introducing our Supervised Toothbrushing Programme in Reading, we are supporting children to build healthy habits and positive oral health skills that will benefit them for life.”