The event will also help young children to learn about what is needed to develop and maintain a healthy mouth while helping them to familiarise themselves with some early experiences of dental visits.
President of the BSDHT Michaela ONeill, believes teaching good habits and routines at an early age means children are more likely to continue them through into adulthood.
Ms ONeill says: “Whether it’s their first tooth or their first dental visit, a child’s early experiences of oral health can impact on the rest of their lives.
“First Smiles can ensure early years and primary school children everywhere receive the right information, delivered in an easy to understand and enjoyable way, which they can later adopt at home.
“As part of First Smiles we are looking for enthusiastic and passionate dental practices and dental health professionals to make contact with their local nurseries and schools to deliver oral health lessons on Friday, June 19.
“By instilling the importance of a healthy mouth at a young age, we are not only creating good health for these children now, but the benefits will most likely continue far into the future.”
The announcement of First Smiles coincides with a new Government report released on March19, which reveals nearly a third (31 per cent) of five year olds and nearly a half (46 per cent) of eight year olds have visible signs of dental decay.
Principal dentist and spokesperson for oral health charity the British Dental Health Foundation, Ewa Rozwadowska, believes more needs to be done to improve the health of school children and welcomes the First Smiles initiative.
Ms Rozwadowska says: “It’s a somewhat alarming thought when almost one in three children are starting school with visible signs of tooth decay. As an entirely preventable disease we all need to do more to address this so that we give all children the best start in life.
“The British Dental Health Foundation would like to welcome the First Smiles programme and encourage the need for an increase in the amount of time oral care is taught in the classroom. With local schools and dental practices working together we can help improve the oral health and hygiene habits and behaviours of children across the UK.”
The BSDHT are looking for supporters and volunteers from the dental profession to partner with their local nurseries and schools.
If you are interested in taking part in First Smiles please contact the BSDHT by telephone on 01788 575 050 or by email at enquiries@bsdht.org.uk