Teachers handing out toothpaste as rising UK costs hit pupils’ dental health

Three-quarters of teachers surveyed say they have noticed children lacking access to toothpaste and toothbrushes

Four out of five UK teachers have given toothbrushes and toothpaste to students, with the cost of living crisis affecting the oral health of children, according to new research.

A survey of secondary teachers by hygiene poverty charity Beauty Banks and the British Dental Association (BDA) has revealed that 81% of teachers say some children in their school have no access to toothpaste, with 41% saying this leads to them being socially excluded because of poor oral hygiene.