Dental practices are being invited to enter a national competition that recognises success in increasing the number of children aged 0 to 2 years who are accessing dental care.

England's Chief Dental Officer Sara Hurley announced the launch of the 2019 NASDAL Dental Check by One Practice of the Year award at the recent NASDAL (National Association of Specialist Dental Accountants and Lawyers) biannual conference held at Acton Trussell near Stafford, on 25 April 2019.

The award recognises a practice that has successfully introduced the British Society of Paediatric Dentistry (BSPD) Dental Check by One (DCby1) scheme into their practice.

Established in 2018, the award highlights excellence in the provision of oral care and prevention in children and showcases the opportunity to achieve a real business improvement. Last year's winner was the Maltings Dental Practice in Lincoln.

NASDAL said particular credit would be given to applications from dental practices with evidence supporting their contribution to the overall health of their community.

Sara Hurley said: 'I am delighted to endorse such a worthwhile award. The UK-wide Dental Check by One campaign was launched by BSPD in partnership with the Office of the Chief Dental Officer England (OCDO) and we are strong supporters of the initiative and early attendance. I look forward to hearing how the entrants have reached out to their communities and engaged with families.'

Liz Roebuck, President of the BSPD, welcomed the announcement of the 2019 award, saying: 'When DCby1 was first launched, we were convinced that it would be highly rewarding for the practices that committed to it.

'Our expectations were exceeded with the entries for the 2018 NASDAL DCby1 Practice of the Year Award. We are delighted to continue our support for the award and look forward to reading more inspiring entries in 2019.'

All entries have to be submitted before 5pm, Friday 30 August 2019.

The winning practice will win £1,000, a trophy, and the right to use the NASDAL Dental Check by One Practice of the Year 2019 title.

More details and how to enter for the award are available by visiting https://www.nasdal.org.uk/award/index.php.