Learning about dental health is an essential part of a well-rounded PSHE education curriculum. And with tooth decay affecting almost 30% of 5-year-olds across England, it’s vital that pupils are equipped with the necessary knowledge, skills and behaviors for maintaining oral health both now and in the future.
Our lessons focus on strategies and behaviours that pupils can implement independently in their own lives to promote good dental health. They will also help you to meet relevant areas from the statutory RSHE guidance around ‘healthy eating’ and ‘health and prevention’.
These lessons were developed with Professor Zoe Marshman (School of Clinical Dentistry, University of Sheffield) and Professor Nicola Innes (School of Dentistry, Cardiff University) as part of the Brushing RemInder 4 Good oral HealTh (BRIGHT) trial funded by the National Institute for Health Research.
Read our latest blog to learn more about the vital role schools can play in addressing this issue.
Learning objective & outcomes |
Programme of Study |
DfE statutory guidance |
Key stage 1Looking after our teethTo learn about looking after our teeth. Pupils will be able to:
|
Healthy lifestylesH2. about foods that support good health and the risks of eating too H17. about dental care and visiting the dentist, how to brush teeth correctly; food and drink that support dental health |
Healthy eating
Health and prevention
|
Key stage 2Exploring dental healthTo learn how to maintain dental health. Pupils will be able to:
|
Healthy lifestylesH11. how to maintain good oral hygiene (including correct brushing and flossing); why regular visits to the dentist are essential; the impact of lifestyle choices on dental care (e.g. sugar consumption/acidic drinks such as fruit juices, smoothies and fruit teas; the effects of smoking) |
Learning objective & outcomes |
Programme of Study |
DfE statutory guidance |
Key stage 3Maintaining dental healthTo learn about dental health, including the importance of oral hygiene and how to access NHS services. Students will be able to:
|
Healthy lifestylesH19. the importance of taking increased responsibility for their own physical health including dental check-ups, sun safety and self examination (especially testicular self-examination in late KS3); the purpose of vaccinations offered during adolescence for individuals and society H21. how to access health services when appropriate |
Healthy eating
Health and prevention
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