Sir, I write in reference to the opinion article Child dental neglect: is it a neglected area in the UK? (BDJ 2012; 213: 103–104). The authors correctly highlight the various factors which contribute to the inequalities in oral health for children. These inequalities contribute to child dental neglect (CDN).

One of the most evidence-based and effective ways of addressing this is by the commissioning of community fluoride varnish schemes. The principle being that prevention is taken to the child rather than waiting for the children to be taken to preventive care.

This is particularly effective for those children whose parents do not traditionally access care. An added bonus of this intervention is that children with obvious dental disease can be identified and signposted to local dental services.

The fluoride varnish scheme has been running in Islington for the last three years. Not only have thousands of children received fluoride varnish but also a large number have been signposted to local dental services for ongoing care.

In the absence of school screening, community fluoride varnish schemes can address CDN both directly and indirectly.

1. Clinical lead for the Islington Fluoride Varnish Programme