Celebrating Oral Health

Eltham Primary school children were given a chance to brush up on their oral hygiene, thanks to a new school based tooth brushing programme launched this week as part of Oral Health Week.

Eltham Primary School was chosen because children in the area have historically suffered high levels of dental decay and along with the school, Dental Therapist Lois Harrop was keen to support the new programme

“Oral health is vital for children to be able to speak and eat properly, and is important for children’s self esteem and quality of life,” said Mrs Harrop. “Tooth brushing programmes are fantastic, because kids learn how to brush their teeth properly and most importantly learn that tooth brushing can be fun!”

“All students will be shown correct tooth brushing techniques and will be encouraged to brush daily to music with their classmates.”

The programme is a joint initiative between the Taranaki DHB's Community Oral Health Service, the New Zealand Dental Association and Colgate, who have supported the initiative by providing free toothbrushes and toothpaste.

Dental therapists were at Eltham Primary School on Thursday 15th September to launch the celebration.

For more information please call

Sue Carrington
Media Advisor
Ph 021 367 789

Last updated: Wednesday, October 30, 2013