Daily Toothbrushing Should Reduce Tooth Decay in Kindergartens - Thuringia launches urgent campaign to fight tooth decay in young children

Health officials in Thuringia are pushing for better oral hygiene among young children. A new campaign targets daycare centres after reports showed nearly half of all children in the region suffer from tooth decay. The effort involves dentists, educators and local health departments working together to improve dental care habits early on.

The latest figures reveal a concerning trend in children’s dental health across Thuringia. In 2024, over 27 percent of six-year-olds needed treatment for cavities. Another 15 percent had already undergone fillings or other restorative work. These numbers have prompted action from the state’s Ministry of Health and dental professionals.

The campaign focuses on making daily toothbrushing a routine in all 1,400 daycare facilities. Currently, staff members—such as educators and assistants—supervise brushing sessions under facility directors. This practice aligns with standard German childcare regulations, though no single Thuringian authority oversees it directly. A joint appeal has been sent to every daycare provider in the region. The initiative also includes 367 ‘sponsor dentists’ who will advise staff and help familiarise children with dental visits. Preventive care specialists and public health teams are supporting the push to reduce decay rates through early education.

The programme aims to cut tooth decay by embedding regular brushing into daily daycare life. With dentists and health workers involved, the focus remains on practical steps rather than broad targets. Officials hope this approach will lead to fewer cavities and better long-term dental health for Thuringia’s children.