Who delivers Childsmile?

Dental Health Support Workers (DHSWs) are employed by NHS Boards and are responsible for liaising with families, public health nursing teams, nurseries, schools and dental practices.

Extended Duty Dental Nurses (EDDNs) may be employed by NHS Boards or independent contractor (family dentists) and provide preventive advice and regular fluoride varnish applications.

Dental Practice Staff (dentists, dental nurses, dental hygienists, dental therapists, reception staff) who may be employed by NHS or with independent contractor practices.

Health Visitors and Public Health Nurses liaise with DHSWs and identify children and families who would most benefit from targeted direct Childsmile support.

Childsmile is managed through a network of NHS Board Coordinators and three Regional Programme Managers who in turn report to the two Programme Directors.

The programme is commissioned by the Chief Dental Officer.

There are a range of partners in education, voluntary and community sectors who work collaboratively with Childsmile to promote and improve children’s oral health.