Fluoride Varnish Programme - Parents of Pupils in Reception and Key Stage 1

It is well documented that children who suffer with conditions of the mouth, such as decay are found to have less concentration at school leading to time off due to pain for something that can be prevented.

We are delighted to be taking part in the fluoride varnish intervention programme for the third year running to help combat poor dental health in our children.

Poor dental health is largely preventable, yet decay can lead to pain or need treatment that interferes with children's ability to sleep. eat, study or play and may also require guardians to take time off work. Tooth extractions under general anesthesia also present a small but avoidable risk to children.

The Dental Outreach Team are responsible for promoting good oral health within the borough and together over the past year we have managed to encourage 71% of our Early Years and KS1 pupils to take part in the fluoride varnish programme. 

However, we would like to reach even more pupils this year, so we are asking for your help and encouraging pupils of children in EYFS and KS1 to: 

• return parent consent forms on time
• complete all medical forms fully and answer all medical questions
• encourage you to visit the dentist with your children regularly: a dentist can apply fluoride up to 4 times a year
• if a dental visit has been advised please follow up and make that appointment, many small conditions of the mouth when left can become more serious. 

Broadford received a Bronze award for our pupil participation last year. We would like to improve on this and ensure that more pupils receive treatment in the upcoming year. Areas around London, such as Havering are at a disadvantage because we do not have fluoridated water which has also been linked to improved oral health.

Please follow the steps above to ensure that your child does not miss out on vital treatment.