Public Health launches Smile of Mann project
Pupils at nurseries on the Isle of Man will be taught the importance of cleaning their teeth.
Public Health is launching the Smile of Mann project to ensure youngsters are developing tooth brushing skills while understanding why it's necessary to brush on a regular basis.
23 nurseries are taking part in the scheme, which launches on Monday following a pilot project last year.
Supervised tooth brushing will be part of the daily routine as the campaign aims improve oral health among children on the Island.
The latest figures show over a quarter of under fives on the Isle of Man have experienced tooth decay.
Trained staff will be on hand to show pupils how to clean their teeth with flouride toothpaste on a dry brush, and every child will be supplied with their own toothbrush, which will be replaced each term.
Six nurseries tested the project between September and December in 2017, which showed children enjoyed the activity and listened to the message about the benefits of daily brushing.
It's hoped encouraging children to form good habits at an early age will lead to better dental health in the long term.