Healthwatch Warrington Unveils New Report to Improve Children's Oral Health Across the Borough
Healthwatch Warrington has today released its comprehensive new report, “Tooth & Paste and Beyond: Addressing Oral Health Needs for All Children in Warrington,” shining a spotlight on the challenges local families face when accessing dental care, and highlighting promising community-led solutions.
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The report follows eight months of engagement and outreach involving over 147 families, revealing that while 88% of children had seen a dentist by age two, 60% of parents struggled to register with an NHS dentist. Only 9% of children were confirmed to be part of supervised toothbrushing programmes in schools.
Healthwatch Warrington CEO Lydia Hughes says:
“Oral health is one of the most vital and preventable public health issues we face. With feedback from families, professionals and community partners, this report offers practical insights and recommendations to help every child in Warrington get a fair start with their oral health.”
Key findings from the report include:
- Ongoing barriers to NHS dental registration and appointment access post-COVID.
- Confusion among families over correct brushing techniques and toothpaste use.
- A strong appetite for engaging, child-friendly resources such as the "Tooth & Paste" videos and teeth-cleaning charts, which have reached thousands through community events and digital campaigns.
Healthwatch Warrington is now calling for targeted action, including:
- Expanded supervised toothbrushing schemes in schools and nurseries.
- More accessible dental services, including mobile clinics in high-need areas.
- Tailored support for families with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities).
- Stronger oral health education efforts across GP surgeries, health visitors, and schools.
The report also celebrates successful collaborations with Bridgewater NHS Oral Health Team and Public Health Warrington, which helped ensure evidence-based messaging and community trust.
