Since its launch in 2006 as a pilot initiative, Childsmile has grown into Scotland’s national programme for improving children’s oral health, making a significant and lasting difference to families nationwide.

At the heart of its success is strong partnership working.

Gail Stewart, NHS Forth Valley Childsmile coordinator, said: “The NHS Forth Valley Childsmile Team would like to extend a sincere and heartfelt thank you to all our

colleagues and partners across education, health, community and partner services.

NHS Forth Valley's Childsmile team show off their own pearly whites to mark the service's 20th anniversary (Picture: Submitted)

placeholder image — NHS Forth Valley's Childsmile team show off their own pearly whites to mark the service's 20th anniversary (Picture: Submitted)

"Your ongoing support and collaboration have been key to our shared success.”

Over the past 20 years, Childsmile has delivered impressive outcomes, demonstrating the power of prevention – one of the key priorities in NHS Forth Valley’s Population Health and Care Strategy.

Rates of dental decay among five-year-olds have fallen dramatically, from around 60 per cent in 2006 to approximately 25 per cent today.

This progress has contributed to improved oral health, as well as wider benefits for children’s health and wellbeing.

The programme also represents excellent value for money, with strong evidence highlighting the benefits of early intervention. While the annual cost of the programme is around £1.8 million, it delivers estimated savings of £4.7 million, with treatment costs shown to be 2.5 times higher than prevention.

Gail said: “While we celebrate these achievements, we remain committed to further improving oral health outcomes, reducing inequalities across Scotland, and continuing to work in partnership to support local children and families.

“We look forward to continuing this important work together, helping every child in Scotland have the best start with their oral health.”