Smile Squad brings free dental health checks to Parr Children's Centre

Article date: 25 February 2025

57 children were seen by the squad at Parr Children's Centre, with free checks delivered in collaboration with students from Liverpool University Dental School under supervision of qualified, experienced lecturers as part of a broader mission to improve early childhood oral health in the community.

Tooth decay is the most common reason for hospital admission in children aged six to ten, with children in less affluent communities more likely to have poor oral health resulting in tooth extractions.

Oral health challenges are particularly pressing in St Helens Borough. In 2021-22, over 31% of five-year-olds in the borough had visible signs of tooth decay, a figure notably higher than the national average of 23.7% and the North West average of 30.6%, underscoring the importance of programs like Smile Squad in fostering early habits of good oral hygiene.

In addition to significant healthcare impacts, poor oral health in children results in an average of three missed school days each year and may also limit their academic performance and future potential. Furthermore, healthy teeth are essential for proper speech and social development, supporting a child's growth, learning and confidence.

Brushing a baby's teeth as soon as they start to come through and helping children brush their teeth until you're sure they can do it well enough themselves (normally until they're at least seven) is important. Brush teeth twice daily for about two minutes with fluoride toothpaste and remember that NHS dental care for children is free.

The free, family-friendly Smile Squad event also featured appearances by children's characters Crocosmile and Captain Tuck, alongside interactive sessions designed especially for pre-school-aged children and their families. And goody bags with toothbrushes, toothpaste and children's oral health advice were given out.

Councillor Sue Murphy MBE, St Helens Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health, said: "We were pleased to welcome the Smile Squad to our borough once again, providing an accessible, educational, and fun opportunity for local families to take proactive steps toward improving their children's oral health.

"Trips to the dentist can be scary for young children and even parents, making regular visits a challenge for some families. For some children attending the event it was the first time they'd been seen by a dental professional, but the familiar and welcoming setting of our Parr Family Hub helped to settle nerves and start to build positive, healthy habits and bright smiles for life."