NHS Sussex was identified by the National Association of Specialist Dental Accountants and Lawyers (NASAL) as the leading NHS system for providing dental healthcare for young children with its 0-3 Access and Prevention programme.

NHS Sussex and Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust (SCFT) partnered with 16 dental practices across Sussex to provide training for dental nurses and therapists to become Oral Health Champions to work with children and families in community settings such as nurseries and family hubs.

The programme has distributed more than 300 toothbrush packs and provided access to dental care for more than 300 young children, with one service arranging a Saturday club for families to attend and learn about oral healthcare and the services available to them.

In addition to the champions, 151 health visitors have received enhanced oral health training to provide essential information to families to help prevent dental issues in their young children as their teeth start to develop.

A spokesperson for SCFT said: ‘The SCFT Oral Health Promotion team were delighted to offer our services to train the new Oral Health Champions. They are working in local communities to encourage and promote dental access for 0-3s.

‘We hope to have given them the skills to offer 1:1 support for their patients and inspire others to protect their smiles. Through their dedication, children learn habits that last a lifetime, and families gain confidence in caring for their teeth.'