Children in special support schools have slightly lower levels of tooth decay than children in mainstream schools but are more likely to have their teeth extracted, according to a new survey published today (24 September 2015) by Public Health England (PHE).

The first national survey of oral health in special schools – schools for children with severe special education needs and disabilities (SEND) – also show that those who experienced decay have more teeth affected and their oral hygiene is poorer. The number of children in special support schools with a substantial amount of plaque is double that of those attending mainstream schools (4% and 2% respectively for 5-year-olds and 20% and 10% respectively for 12-year-olds).

The survey, broken down by region, shows wide variation in tooth decay prevalence and severity ranging from 10% to 33% for 5-year-olds and 22% to 41% for 12-year-olds. The North West region has the poorest dental health for both age groups in special support schools.

Dr Sandra White, Director of Dental Public Health at PHE, said: 'Despite children in special support schools having slightly lower levels of tooth decay than children in mainstream schools, they are still very high so we must not be complacent. Children in special support schools are particularly vulnerable so they require an additional package of support to prevent and treat tooth decay.'