PRIMARY school children across Tameside are being encouraged to design colourful and informative posters showing how they look after their teeth.
Children aged five to seven can take part in the competition as part of National Smile Month, which runs until June 12.
The deadline for entries has been extended to Friday, June 27, to factor in the upcoming two-week half term.
The winner will be notified the week after and will receive an oral health goody bag for their school – including books, a giant teeth model and toothbrush, a demonstration puppet, and resources to support oral health at home.
The competition has been organised by Tameside Council’s Public Health team to mark National Smile Month, which highlights that children should brush their teeth for two minutes last thing at night and one other time during the day using a fluoride toothpaste.
The council says over a quarter of Tameside children have tooth decay in their baby teeth – higher than the national average – and a ‘significant number’ of children in the borough have visible plaque.
Last year in Tameside, there were almost 250 hospital tooth extractions for 0 to 19 year olds – with around two thirds of these cases being mainly due to tooth decay or cavities.
Councillor Taf Sharif, Executive Member for Population Health and Wellbeing, said: “Healthy teeth make happy smiles! This competition is a great way for kids to get creative while learning how to take care of their teeth.
“We want them to have fun, feel proud of their smiles, and remember to brush every morning and night – and maybe even remind their parents too!
“Good dental hygiene not only prevents tooth decay and gum disease but it also helps with confidence and self-esteem.”
Tameside Council’s oral health website page at https://www.tameside.gov.uk/health/oralhealth has more information and advice.