When teachers supervise tooth brushing in primary schools, dental decay is significantly reduced. This is the finding of researchers at the Oral Health Research Centre in London. In a study, published in Caries Research, researchers reveal that daily teacher-supervised tooth brushing, reduced the occurrence of tooth decay by 11% in 5-year-old children living in a socially deprived region of London. Dental decay is one of the most common preventable health problems in children living in the poorer areas of the UK. Children living in low-socioeconomic neighbourhoods tend to start brushing their teeth at a later age, are less likely to use fluoride toothpaste and, as a consequence, experience higher levels of dental decay overall. Rates of tooth decay in 5-year-olds have not improved in the last 10 years.

A total of 370 first year primary school children completed the study. Half of the children brushed their teeth once a day at school with commercially available fluoride toothpaste under the supervision of their teacher. No supplementary dietary or dental health advice was given to the children or their parents. A significant overall reduction in tooth decay was reported in all children. Looking solely at those with previous dental decay, the reduction in dental decay becomes even more apparent. A 30% reduction in further dental decay was noted in this group. Greater protection was seen in primary teeth than in permanent teeth. It is well recognised that the introduction and use of fluoride toothpaste has been the most important factor in the general decline in dental decay in children. Regular tooth brushing with fluoridated toothpaste has a greater impact on dental health than the restriction of sugary foods and beverages.