Celebrating 20 years of Childsmile: supporting healthy smiles in the Western Isles

NHS Western Isles is joining in with celebrating 20 years of Childsmile, the national programme that helps children across Scotland enjoy healthier smiles and better oral health.

At the heart of Childsmile are three key elements:

• Toothbrushing – helping children develop healthy brushing habits from an early age.
• Community and Practice – providing oral health support and preventative care through local communities and dental practices.
• Fluoride Varnish – helping to protect children's teeth and prevent tooth decay.

Childsmile is about much more than healthy teeth. It is about giving every child the best possible start in life and creating positive experiences that help children feel happy, confident and engaged when learning about their oral health.

In the Western Isles, one of the ways the Dental team bring Childsmile to life is through ‘Childsmile weeks', which are designed with children at the centre. These events provide opportunities for children to learn through play, exploration and creativity while discovering how to care for their teeth. Through stories, games and interactive activities, children can build confidence and learn healthy habits in a fun and supportive environment.

This approach reflects the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). Children have the right to the best possible health care and the right to play, learn and develop in ways that are appropriate to their age and stage. They should be able to access health services in environments where they feel safe, respected and included.

The Childsmile weeks help to fulfil these rights by creating welcoming, child-friendly experiences that make oral health education engaging and accessible. By learning through play, children develop positive attitudes towards oral health and dental visits, laying the foundations for healthy smiles that can last a lifetime.

As Childsmile marks its 20th anniversary, NHS Western Isles is proud of the difference the programme continues to make for children and families across the Western Isles. Through partnership working with nurseries, schools, families and dental teams, the programme remains committed to supporting every child to achieve the best possible oral health and a confident, healthy smile.