Wolverhampton dentist says parents should 'lead by example' when it comes to teeth brushing
Almost a quarter of parents in Britain 'forget' to brush their kids teeth
A Wolverhampton dentist is urging parents in the Black Country and Shropshire to 'lead by example' when it comes to dental hygiene.
A report by Ordo and the Dental Wellness Trust revealed nearly 1 in 4 children in Britain skip brushing their teeth altogether because they forget or get distracted.
Why should children brush their teeth?
Dr Simran Baines is a dentist in Wolverhampton and Telford. She told us that poor dental hygiene leads to tooth decay, which overall impacts a young person's sense of self:
"It can affect all walks of their life, it is not just the toothache. They may have to take time of schools and miss vital learning opportunities.
"Having black teeth with other children picking on them can massively impact their confidence.
"They do not want to smile or go to school, it is really sad for young children," she said.
How can I get my child to brush their teeth?
Dr Simran advises brushing twice a day and building it in to your child's daily routine.
She said parents should brush their teeth alongside their child and try and make the task fun:
"There are different toothbrushes on the market which will make it fun.
"You can try playing their favourite song and by the end of that song, they will have brushed their teeth," she said.
Rayo Premium