Time to invest in prevention

The early-years scheme, operating in all nurseries and primary schools in deprived areas, offers young children free toothbrushes, toothpaste and two fluoride varnish applications per year.

The number of children in primary one with "no obvious decay experience" has risen from 54 per cent in 2006 to 68 per cent in 2014.

The BDA has called for the Scottish Government to build upon this success and expand coverage and for administrations across the UK to take heed and invest in prevention.

Mick Armstrong, Chair of the British Dental Association, said:

“Childsmile has produced substantial savings, but this isn’t just about money. First and foremost it has saved young children from distress, days out of education, and ultimately avoidable dental treatment.

“Politicians across the UK need to take stock of what Scotland has achieved. Every government and every party likes to talk about prevention, but too few have recognised that oral health is a key part of the health mix.