NHS introduce free dental checks for children at residential special schools

Children and young people with a learning disability and/or autism reportedly experience poorer oral healthcare outcomes than the general population, with greater severity and extent of tooth decay than their mainstream peers. Research shows they have higher levels of visible plaque and are twice as likely to have had one or more teeth removed.

The NHS sensory checks were piloted in schools during 2022 and 2023 and will be offered to all special residential schools and colleges across England from 2025 – reaching around 18,000 children and young people.

The checks will help ensure issues are identified promptly and that children and young people can get the right care and follow-up support as quickly as possible.