Poor dental health in Manx children a 'social injustice'

'Smile of Mann' scheme to be extended across the Island's primary schools

It's hoped expanding a scheme promoting healthy toothbrushing habits will improve the oral health of children across the Island.

A recent survey of five-year-olds here found more than a quarter have decayed, missing or filled teeth.

In January, government said there was 'no funding' tackle the problem.

Now though, the 'Smile of Mann' toothbrushing programme is being expanded from April.

Deputy Director of Public Health, Dr Ross Keat, says something needed to be done to address the issues:

'Smile of Mann'

The programme has been active in early years settings since 2018, and was recently extended to include Reception and Year 1 children as well as Specialist Provision Centres.

It was initially funded on a temporary basis, but now has funding for 18 months from April.

It will also be available to more children across the Island.

The expanded service will include:

• Optional twice-yearly applications of fluoride varnish for all primary school children from Reception to Year 6.
• A dental survey of 12-year-olds as well as the continuation of the survey of five-year-olds.
• Oral health resources for weaning and baby teeth care provided to new parents through their health visitors.

As of December 2024, there were 6,114 people waiting for an NHS dentist on the Isle of Man.

Of them, almost a third were under 18.

David Ashford is the Cabinet Office Minister and says it's hoped the scheme will reduce the number of children needing urgent treatment:

The expansion of the scheme was launched at Willaston Primary School, who are one of the 15 schools currently taking part.

Nola, Connor and Luella have been speaking to Manx Radio:

A team of dental nurses and oral health improvement officers will be appointed to continue their work with schools, early years setting and parents.

There's more information on that available here.

You can read the Children's Oral Health Report in full here.