Why oral health is in the EYFS framework

The EYFS framework states that early years providers must promote good oral health of children who attend their setting.

Oral health is important, even with baby teeth. This is because children’s baby teeth:

• help them to bite and chew

• support speech and language development

• help them feel confident when they smile

• make space for and help to guide adult teeth

Good oral health also keeps children free from toothache, infection and swollen gums.

Tooth decay

Children need to form good oral health habits from an early age to help avoid tooth decay. Tooth decay happens when sugars from food and drinks interact with bacteria in tooth plaque. This results in acid production, causing holes in teeth known as cavities.

If children have tooth decay, they may have yellow, brown or black marks on their teeth. They may also complain about their teeth hurting, particularly when eating or drinking.

Tooth decay is largely preventable, but it’s still a serious problem among young children. The Office for Health Improvement and Disparities oral health survey of 5 year old children 2022 and Public Health England oral health survey of 3 year old children 2020 found that:

• nearly a quarter of 5 year olds in England have tooth decay, affecting 3 to 4 teeth on average

• children from more deprived backgrounds are more likely to have tooth decay

• 11% of 3 year olds in England have visible tooth decay, affecting 3 teeth on average

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Having decayed teeth removed is also the most common reason for surgery under a general anaesthetic for children aged 6 to 10.

Visiting the Dentist

It is recommended that children are taken to the dentist once their 1st tooth comes through and by the age of 1, so children can get used to the experience.  The first dental visit is normally short and is a chance to meet the dental team in a friendly way. The dentist may ask the child to sit on the dental chair or on the lap of a parent or guardian. The dentist will check the teeth for decay and check the gums and the rest of the mouth.

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