12/06/2026
🦷 Let’s Talk Teeth! 🦷
Now, I know I’m not a dentist… but I am a nurse who has seen far too many children undergo dental surgery that could have been prevented.
When I worked on a children’s surgical ward, our dental lists were enormous. Every single day, children came through for procedures under a general anaesthetic. While some cases were unavoidable, such as dental trauma from accidents, complex medical conditions, or children who experience sensory challenges and difficulties with toothbrushing, many cases were due to preventable tooth decay and poor oral hygiene.
As adults, it’s our responsibility to help children learn healthy habits that will last a lifetime. Children depend on us to teach them when, why and how to brush their teeth properly. Something as simple as brushing twice a day, morning and night, can make a huge difference to their long-term dental health.
One procedure I saw regularly was a CORGA (Comprensive Oral Rehabilitation under General Anaesthetic), where multiple teeth required treatment or removal while the child was asleep. Seeing young children need surgery for something that is often preventable was always heartbreaking.
That’s why dental health is something I briefly include in my Fun Nurse sessions. We chat about brushing our teeth twice a day, keeping our smiles healthy and why looking after our teeth is so important. Children love sharing their own brushing routines and hearing from their friends helps reinforce positive habits in a fun and engaging way.
The children get to practise brushing teeth and use their medical torches to have a look at my smile too (I do take pride in my pearly whites! 😁🦷).
Healthy teeth aren’t just about a nice smile. Good oral health helps children eat comfortably, speak clearly, sleep better and avoid pain, infections and unnecessary hospital visits.
To all the parents doing their best with little ones who have sensory needs, additional needs or who find toothbrushing particularly challenging — you’re doing a great job! Sometimes brushing teeth can feel like an uphill battle but every small win counts ♥️
A toothbrush, a little toothpaste and two minutes twice a day can save a child from a whole lot more in the future. 💜🧸