Toothbrushing scheme
This page is for parents, carers, and education staff in Leeds. It explains how the Supervised Toothbrushing Scheme works, why it is important, and what families can expect.
About the Toothbrush Scheme
Tooth decay can be stopped!
The 0 to 19 Oral Health team runs a supervised toothbrushing scheme in nurseries, primary schools, and SILC settings.
The aim is to help children build healthy brushing habits that last a lifetime.
The scheme supports children aged 3 to 5 who live in areas where extra help makes the biggest difference.
What happens in the scheme?
Children brush their teeth once a day at nursery or school.
- They use fluoride toothpaste
- Staff supervise to make sure brushing is safe and effective
- This is as well as brushing at home, not instead of it
- The scheme helps children learn how to brush their teeth properly every day
Which places take part?
The scheme is offered in selected:
- early years settings
- primary schools
- SILC provisions (Specialist Inclusive Learning Centres)
Parents and carers can choose whether their child takes part.
All staff receive training to keep the brushing routine clean, safe, and effective.
Children also get a toothbrush and toothpaste to take home.
How are toothbrushes stored?
Toothbrushes are kept in special holders:
- They allow air to flow around the brushes
- Each toothbrush is clearly labelled
- This helps keep things clean and prevents mix‑ups
Why brush at school or nursery?
Daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste:
- helps stop tooth decay
- builds healthy brushing habits
- helps keep children healthy and ready to learn
Children brush:
- in the classroom
- at a time that works for the setting
- in small groups or individually
- For at least two minutes
The scheme is completely free for families and settings.
Quality checks
The 0 to 19 Oral Health team:
- visits each setting twice a year
- checks that brushing is being done safely
- ensures standards stay clean, hygienic, and consistent
- supports staff with any training or questions
Should my child still brush at home?
Yes! Home brushing is still very important.
Children should brush:
- twice a day
- for 2 minutes
- With family fluoride toothpaste
- last thing at night and one other time in the day
Children also receive a home brushing pack with toothbrush and toothpaste.
Should my child still visit the dentist?
Yes. Children should still have regular dental check‑ups.
You can find an NHS dentist around you.
