The shocking facts
Tooth decay is the most common reason for hospital admission in children aged between 6 and 10 years. See the BBC’s powerful film about access to NHS dentistry in Cornwall and what we’re doing as a B Corp certified dental social enterprise to reach those in our communities who need us most.
Did you know?
83%
increase in the number of caries-related tooth extractions in hospital for 0 to 19 year olds compared to the previous year 2020/21
36%
of children do not see an NHS dentist each year and on average 3 days of school are missed due to dental problems
25%
of children have tooth decay with 3-4 teeth affected which is a fifth of the total number of teeth a child has
102
children every day have teeth removed in hospital due to decay, yet this is preventable
5
The average 5 year old consumes their own body weight in sugar each year
9/10
hospital tooth extractions among children aged 0 – 5 years are due to preventable decay
Get involved
Help us to address this tooth decay crisis
Schools, Nurseries & Family Hubs
Our campaign is dedicated to making a difference in Cornish communities. Working together with Cornwall Council’s Public Health Team, local businesses and individuals we go into schools providing fun and educational oral health education, tooth brushing clubs and fluoride varnishing. See how your community could benefit.
Supporters
We simply can’t achieve all that we do without the generosity of our supporters as this type of work is not currently funded by the NHS in Cornwall. Our campaign therefore provides a range of mutually beneficial opportunities for supporters to make a real difference in their local community. Help us improve the oral health of more Cornish children by becoming a supporter.
What parents & teachers say about Brighter Smiles
“Thank you for coming, Dylan (and Jo!). You really helped us understand about how important it is to look after our teeth.”
Teacher at Mount Hawke Academy
“Brighter smiles are professional, friendly and engaging. The children look forward to the sessions provided.”
Teacher at St Martin’s C of E
“Thank you Brighter Smiles, the children have found out so much information today and were so excited to receive their goody bags!! Thanks!”
Teacher at Indian Queens School
Register to keep in touch
Inspired by what we do? Why not subscribe to our quarterly e-newsletter?
Latest news
Recent articles
