Toothbrushing programme launched to tackle rising rates of tooth decay

More than one in three 5-year-olds in Reading have tooth decay. This is much higher than the rest of the country.

New numbers show that tooth decay in children has got worse since 2019. A report from Healthwatch Reading found that many parents don't know where to find dental services. Some parents also struggle because they don't speak English well.

What will happen

From early 2026, 1,800 children will get free toothbrushes and toothpaste. They will brush their teeth every day at school or nursery with a teacher watching to help them.

The programme will run in 44 nurseries and schools in the poorest parts of Reading. The national government and Reading Borough Council are paying for it.

Who will get help

Children aged 3 to 5 in nurseries and children's centres will take part. Children up to age 10 in special needs schools will also join in.

Each brushing session will take 5 to 10 minutes. Children will learn the right way to brush their teeth.

What children will learn

Children will have fun lessons using puppets, toy teeth and stories. They will learn how to brush properly and which foods are good for teeth.

Parents can go to information sessions to learn how to find a dentist, what NHS dental care they can get for free, and how to help their children brush at home.

Extra help

Community Dental Services CIC, a dental charity with over 10 years of experience, will train all the teachers. Each school or nursery will get special racks to store toothbrushes and all the cleaning supplies they need for free.

Children with special needs will get extra help. They can have special toothbrushes that feel different and toothpaste that doesn't foam. Information will be available in many languages and in easy-read versions.

Schools and nurseries will also work towards a 'Healthy Smiles Plus' award by offering tooth-friendly snacks and treats at parties.