BASCD welcomes the findings of the BRUSH report. Which shows an encouraging increase in the number of children receiving supervised toothbrushing—a well-evidenced intervention with a demonstrable return on investment. However, while this progress is promising, it remains far from sufficient.
We call on the Government to fulfil its commitment to implement a national, targeted supervised toothbrushing programme for 3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds in England’s most disadvantaged areas. The evidence for early years prevention as an effective intervention is overwhelming, and BASCD has long advocated for its prioritization. Further delays in implementation risk deepening health inequalities and missing the opportunity to transform outcomes for children in need.
BASCD is ready and willing to support the Department of Health and Social Care in moving beyond promises to action. It is imperative that we see tangible steps toward delivering this vital programme without further delay.