Primary prevention and health promotion in oral health

Tooth decay, although preventable, is the most common oral disease affecting children and young people. This chapter outlines why child oral health is a priority, the impact of poor oral health on children and families, and what causes poor oral health. It looks at the evidence of what works to improve oral health at an individual level, how we can support children and families to reduce their intake of free sugars, and increase access to fluoride. In addition, it highlights population-based programmes that have evidence that they can improve the oral health of children and what the local return on investment of such a programme would be at 5 and 10 years after commencement. Practitioners, managers, and commissioners all have an important role to play and the chapter concludes with recommendations for action.