AN oral health roadshow will be dropping in on Warrington on May 21 as part of National Smile Month.
Children and families will have the chance to learn about oral health in a fun and interactive way at the road show at the Living Well Hub in Horsemarket Street between 10am and 11am.
The roadshow is part of the All Together Smiling Programme funded by NHS Cheshire and Merseyside and delivered through Beyond – the Cheshire and Merseyside children and young people’s transformation programme in collaboration with Public Health teams. The programme aims to boost awareness of good dental hygiene and reduce tooth decay in the region’s most vulnerable communities.
Families will be able to access a variety of free oral health resources including toothbrush and toothpaste packs, free-flow cups, Save Kids From Sugar, and Give Up Loving Pop materials. Information leaflets, tips for healthy routines, and on-site oral health guidance will also be available.
A local oral health mascot will be present to greet families and support learning through playful interaction.
Tooth decay remains the leading cause of hospital admission for children aged five to nine, with those living in the most deprived communities 3.5 times more likely to have a decaying tooth extracted than children in more affluent areas.
Professor Ian Ashworth, NHS Cheshire and Merseyside’s Director of Population Health, said: “Oral health is a key component of our wider population health strategy. Initiatives like this help us target inequalities by delivering tailored support to those who need it most.
“These community events are a great way to make oral health education fun, accessible, and engaging for families. By getting out into local areas, we’re able to speak directly with parents and carers and help give children the best start in life.”
Dr Elizabeth Crabtree, Programme Director, Beyond Children and Young People Transformation Programme, said: “Our mission is to support children’s long-term wellbeing. Promoting oral health is about more than just preventing tooth decay – it’s about giving children the confidence and care they need to thrive.
“We know that small steps like brushing with fluoride toothpaste can have a huge impact, especially when supported early. These events combine fun, learning and connection, helping us give every child the chance to grow up healthy, happy – and smiling.”
