There is no information held centrally on which we could base an estimate of the number of children who still receive dental screening examinations in school. The National Screening Committee advised that that there is no evidence to support universal screening for dental disease among children aged six to nine years. In the light of this expert advice, we have concentrated on targeted initiatives like the Brushing for Life scheme which provides for families with young children to receive toothpaste and brushes at child health clinics or Sure Start centres, together with advice on how the children can be seen by a dentist.
Data published by the NHS Information Centre for health and social care showed that 7,643,000 children and young people aged under 18 were seen by a primary care national health service dentist in the 24-month period ending June 2009. This is equivalent to 69.5 per cent. of the population aged under 18.