All of Childsmile’s programmes are targeted using Marmot’s proportionate universalism.
Although national targets have been set, Health Boards may choose to extend their local targeting by looking at local knowledge, including NDIP data and rurality.
Childsmile Toothbrushing
Universal approach
All nurseries (whether local authority, voluntary or partner provider) are offered free, daily, supervised toothbrushing within their nursery establishment.
Targeted approach
The programme is also offered to at least 20% of Primary 1 and 2 classes of schools situated in areas with the highest level of need, within NHS Boards across the country. Childsmile uses the definition from the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD) to determine ‘level of need’.
Pack distribution
Universal approach
Every child is provided with a dental pack containing a toothbrush, a tube of toothpaste containing at least 1000ppm fluoride, and oral health messages on at least six occasions by five years of age. Children also receive a free-flow feeder cup in the first year of life
Childsmile Community and Practice
Universal approach
At the dental practice, you will be given advice and support from the dental team, who will show you how you can help your child keep healthy teeth, and stop them suffering tooth decay in the future.
Targeted approach
Embedded dental health support workers within the more disadvantaged communities offer oral health support to families with young children, in the family home.
Childsmile Fluoride Varnish
Universal approach
Your dental practice will provide clinical care including twice yearly fluoride varnish.
Targeted approach
Nurseries and schools participating in Childsmile Fluoride Varnish and Childsmile Toothbrushing Programmes, are selected on the basis of the proportion of children attending the establishment who live in areas of relative disadvantage. Childsmile uses the definition from the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD) to prioritise these areas.
This page is currently under review if you have any feedback please email nss.childsmile@nhs.scot