How did it start?

Childsmile developed largely from two national demonstration programmes (2006-08) laid out in the Action Plan for Modernising Dental Services in Scotland (2005).

Childsmile Core programme

Now referred to as Childsmile Toothbrushing Programme began earlier in many NHS Board areas.

Childsmile Practice 

Now referred to as Childsmile Community and Practice Programme began in the West of Scotland NHS Boards

Childsmile Nursery and Childsmile School 

Now referred to as Childsmile Fluoride Varnish Programme which predominantly began in the East of Scotland NHS Boards.

The interim demonstration phase began in 2008 and involved rolling out a fully integrated Childsmile model (Core, Practice, Nursery and School) across all 14 NHS Board areas by 2011.

Since October 2011, Childsmile has been integrated into the Statement of Dental Remuneration (SDR) and all dental practices delivering NHS care to children are expected to deliver Childsmile interventions.