Title: Targeted oral health promotion in children with additional needs: Experiences from a school based outreach programme
Abstract:
Oral health inequalities remain a significant challenge for children with special educational needs (SEN), who may experience higher rates of dental disease and reduced access to preventive care. The Happy Teeth initiative aimed to deliver tailored oral health education and improve engagement with dental services in SEN settings. As part of the project, sessions were delivered to children aged 3–18, providing interactive toothbrushing guidance, resources, and referrals for those requiring further care. Observations demonstrated high engagement and reinforced the importance of early intervention and collaboration with school staff.
Data collected included participation rates, engagement feedback, and preliminary oral health outcomes, demonstrating the impact of structured, school-based oral health interventions. The project illustrates the importance of multidisciplinary teamwork, adaptation to individual needs, and community-based outreach in promoting oral health equity. This oral presentation will discuss the design, delivery, and lessons learned from the initiative, providing insights for dental professionals, educators, and community practitioners seeking effective strategies for outreach in vulnerable populations.
