Eltham students brush up on oral health | Taranaki Sport | Surfing, Rugby, Soccer, Football, Cricket in Taranaki

Eltham Primary students last week had a chance to brush up on their oral hygiene, thanks to a new school-based tooth brushing programme launched last week during Oral Health Week.

Eltham Primary School was chosen because children in the area have historically suffered high levels of dental decay and along with the school, says Sue Carrington, Taranaki District Health Board's media adviser.

She adds that dental therapist Lois Harrop was keen to support the new programme.

``Oral health is vital for children to be able to speak and eat properly, and is important for children's self esteem and quality of life,'' says Harrop.

``Tooth brushing programmes are fantastic, because kids learn how to brush their teeth properly and most importantly, learn that tooth brushing can be fun!''

Dental therapists visited the school last Thursday.

All students were shown correct tooth brushing techniques and encouraged to brush daily to music with their
classmates.

The programme is a joint initiative between the Taranaki DHB's Community Oral Health Service, the New Zealand Dental Association and Colgate, who have supported the initiative by providing free toothbrushes and toothpaste.