The problem of rotten teeth among children is getting worse every year, with nearly a third of five-year-olds in England having enamel or tooth decay. 

According to the survey, as part of the National Dental Epidemiology Programme for England, each child with dental decay had an average of 3.5 rotten teeth out of the 20 they typically have at this age. 

Therefore, it is not surprising that many people think something needs to be done to improve oral hygiene among children. 

This includes Labour leader Keir Starmer, who recently stated teachers should supervise the brushing of teeth in schools.

Although some people have criticised the politician, saying this could lead to a ‘nanny state’, Mr Starmer claimed it is the responsibility of both the government and parents to look after the health of children in Britain. 

“The number one reason for young children being admitted to hospital is to extract rotten teeth – because it is so difficult to get NHS dental treatment before tooth decay sets in,” he told The Guardian. 

Not only does tooth decay mean children will need their teeth extracting, but it can impact their ability to eat, how they smile, and their social life. Pain from infection, as well as dental appointments, can also result in days missed off school and work for the parents. 

Untreated tooth decay also weakens the immune system, meaning children are more likely to have to miss school due to illnesses and lose out on their education. 

Additionally, emergency dental care in hospitals also has an impact on the NHS budget, which is why Mr Starmer believes prevention is better than spending money to treat the problem.