00:00The health-related behaviour questionnaire conducted last year in Gateshead included questions on children's dental habits,
00:07revealing that around 24% of year four and year six pupils either did not brush their teeth the day
00:14before or brushed only once.
00:16By contrast, older students in years eight and ten reported higher compliance, with 84% brushing twice or more,
00:24aligning with NHS guidance to brush for two minutes twice daily using fluoride toothpaste.
00:30The survey results were presented to Gateshead Council's Families Overview and Scrutiny Committee,
00:35which highlighted persistent oral health challenges, particularly in areas of higher deprivation,
00:41where five-year-olds experienced a 28% rate of decay in 2024.
00:46Hospital tooth extractions due to cavities increased between 2022 and 2024,
00:52although there has been some reduction in decay levels as of 2025.
00:56To address these issues, local authorities have initiated several support measures,
01:02including distribution of family toothbrushing kits by health visitors,
01:06oral health booster packs in baby boxes,
01:09and provision of toothbrushes, toothpaste and timers to children in care under five.
01:15These programmes aim to encourage consistent brushing habits,
01:19improve dental outcomes for young people,
01:21and reduce inequalities in oral health across the Gateshead area.
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