OLDHAM Council’s annual Big Brush campaign is back and the authority is encouraging as many children and families across Oldham to improve oral health and get into a better brushing habit.

From Friday, November 1 to Saturday, November 30, the town hall is aiming to do its bit to help stop the rot by organising brushing activities in children’s centres, promoting tricks and tips to help youngsters keep their sparkle and giving out brushing tools including toothpaste, toothbrushes, timers and charts.

Council bosses are encouraging schools, nurseries and other early years organisations in the town Oldham to get involved in the Supervised Toothbrushing Programme for children age two to five years.

It is part of the Greater Manchester Start Well programme which involves children getting a toothbrush to keep at the setting which they then have a daily supervised brush with the teacher.

Oldham Libraries are hosting their Dental Playbox Sessions throughout the month, where children engage with puppets, giant toothbrushes, dress-up and fun timers to alleviate any fears that children may have about visiting the dentist.

The sessions can be attended at the following libraries:

Thursday, November 7, 1.30pm — 2.30pm at Royton Library

Thursday, November 14, 1.30pm — 2.30pm at Chadderton Library

Wednesday, November 20, 10am —11am at Oldham Library

The event is free, but attendees must book as places as they are limited. To book just visit: www.oldham-council.co.uk/libevent

Councillor Zahid Chauhan, cabinet member for health and social care, said: “Keeping teeth healthy is so important, especially at such a young age. The NHS recommend every child should brush their teeth with family fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day as soon as the first tooth appears, especially at bedtime and at one other time during the day.

“We know there is still a lot of work to do in Oldham to improve oral health among under-fives but it’s a huge priority for the council and our partners.

“We’ve been working hard to educate families and provide support to parents as soon as their child is born.

“It’s parents’ responsibility to make sure children brush their teeth, but we believe providing the best advice and support to parents as early as possible will lead to better habits and oral health.

“I urge all parents to get involved in The Big Brush and as a result we can all ensure our children have smiles for life.”

“I also encourage all parents to ask their school or setting if they can be involved in the Supervised Brushing Scheme taking place across Oldham."

To further help engage children in keeping their gnashers in tip top shape the council is is promoting NHS’ DJ Brush App. The app uses music to make brushing teeth fun and plays two minutes of music taken from your smartphone or tablet to encourage brushing for an effective length of time. Download the free app here: www.brushdj.com

For more information on this year’s Big Brush campaign, top tips and upcoming Big Brush events, please visit: www.oldham.gov.uk/bigbrush