Oral Health
At Sherwood Green, we understand that early experiences with oral health can have a lasting impact on a child’s life. That’s why we prioritise teaching children about their teeth, gums, and good oral health habits from an early age. By starting young, we aim to make caring for their mouth a normal and enjoyable part of their routine while helping them feel comfortable with dental visits and building trust in dentists as friendly professionals.
Oral Health and the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
Our oral health approach aligns with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, which supports the learning, development, and welfare of children from birth to the end of the academic year in which they turn five. This framework helps children achieve the five Every Child Matters outcomes:
Staying Safe
Teaching children to care for their teeth reduces the risk of oral health problems and creates a foundation for lifelong well-being.
Being Healthy
Encouraging good oral hygiene supports overall health, as the mouth is a key part of a child’s well-being
Enjoying and Achieving
Fun and interactive activities around oral health help children feel proud of their achievements, like brushing independently.
Making a Positive Contribution
Through discussions about dental care, children learn how to take care of themselves and contribute to their own health
Achieving Economic Well-Being
Establishing good oral health habits early can prevent costly dental treatments later in life.
Our Commitment to Early Oral Health
Educating Through Play
We introduce oral health concepts through fun, age-appropriate activities, making it easier for children to understand and practice good habits.
Building Trust with Dentists
By normalizing dental visits and talking positively about dentists, we help children view dental care as a safe and friendly experience.
Partnering with Parents
We provide parents with resources and tips to reinforce these habits at home, including healthy eating advice and the importance of regular dental check-ups.
Usefull resources:
Public Health England
Health matters child dental health, guidance to help you prevent tooth decay in children under 5, including links to e-learning.
Children’s Oral Health
guidance to help you prevent tooth decay in children under 5, including links to e-learning.
Oral Health Foundation
Early years foundation stage, how children can keep their mouth healthy and the best way to brush your teeth.
Improving oral health in early years
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Pathways.
PACEY’s nutrition spotlight
Encouraging healthy eating habits.
PACEY’s oral health advice
Includes factsheet for parents.
Delivering oral health from Public Health England,
includes a quick guide to healthy mouths in children.
Dr Ranj and Supertooth
Dr Ranj and Supertooth star in two short videos that you can share all about caring for children’s teeth.