Senior MP gets his teeth into children’s oral health during visit to London dental practice

Visiting Bupa Dental Care in Bank, Mark met with practice staff including dentists and hygienists, as well as Bupa UK CEO, David Hynam, and Bupa Dental Care general manager, Gabriela Pueyo.

The latest figures from the NHS show that over 45,000 under-18s were admitted to hospital in England for tooth extractions in 2017-18. However, the leading causes for dental diseases – such as diet and poor oral care – are entirely preventable.

To help tackle the issue, Bupa practices across the UK are partnering with local schools to help children and parents understand the importance of good oral health.

The team at the Bank practice have developed a strong relationship with Culloden Academy in London, where they have run oral health workshops for over 200 nursery and reception age children. These sessions involve the use of dental toys and equipment to promote toothbrushing and a balanced, healthy diet.

Bupa Dental Care also take part in the Smile4life initiative which involves providing treatment to an additional four children under the age of two each year. A key part of the Smile4life initiative is the Starting Well scheme, which aims to encourage young children in areas with the poorest oral health to visit their local surgery more frequently.