Mass tooth-brushing launches National Smile Month 2014
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- Published: Sunday, 29 November -0001 23:58
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Children and families from Leicester brushed up on their oral health at a synchronised tooth-brushing event to launch National Smile Month 2014. Public health consultant Dr Jasmine Murphy said: “Throughout National Smile Month, we're holding a series of events aimed at encouraging people to think more about looking after their oral health as part of good overall health. This is very important for Leicester as many children suffer from poor dental health.”
The event, which was held at New Parks Children's Centre in Leicester on the 19th May, saw parents, health professionals and children brushing their teeth together and tips given on the most effective ways to brush to help encourage good habits. It was the first in a series of events and initiatives organised by Leicester City Council’s public health team, to promote good oral health during National Smile Month and beyond.
Other initiatives planned for National Smile Month include a baby bottle amnesty at all children's centres throughout the city, where baby bottles are being swapped for free flow-cups. Old, worn-out toothbrushes for any child aged six and under are also being swapped for new replacement toothbrush and toothpaste packs at participating dental practices across the city.
Some primary schools and nurseries in the city are also taking part in daily supervised tooth-brushing sessions. City libraries are by holding storytelling sessions with oral health themes and giving away free booklets on oral health for children. And leisure centres are joining in by giving away free bottles of water to children, as the best drink for rehydration that is also kind to your teeth.
Other community initiatives for National Smile Month have seen toothbrushes and toothpaste given to food banks and hostels for distribution. There are also various competitions being held for different age groups. Primary and secondary school pupils will be able to take part in competitions to win oral health resources for their school plus a year's supply of toothbrushes and toothpaste for the entire family of the winning children. All residents in the city have also been encouraged to get creative by taking part in a photo competition. Leicester City Council is inviting people to take a photograph of anything they think sums up the Smile of Leicester and submit it to the council's public health team.
Deputy city mayor Cllr Rory Palmer leads on health for the city. He said: “We’re committed to improving the oral health of city residents and initiatives like these one can help to make sure children know how to look after their teeth from an early age.”
Cllr Vi Dempster, assistant city mayor responsible for children, young people and schools, said: “We’re determined to improve the oral health of young children in Leicester, and events like these are simple, effective ways to spread important messages about oral health. We want to support families to make positive changes and get into good habits early on.”
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