Wolverhampton residents can now collect free toothbrushes and toothpaste under a new citywide initiative to improve oral health.
The campaign, running until the end of December, is led by the City of Wolverhampton Council in partnership with The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust. It aims to promote better oral hygiene, with a particular focus on children and young people.
Free dental kits are available at several locations across the city, including Central Library, Graiseley Family Hub, WV Active Bilston-Bert Williams, WV Active Central, and WV Active Aldersley.
Alongside the distribution of kits, an online oral health toolkit has been launched to help families develop good dental habits and better understand the importance of regular oral care.
Councillor Obaida Ahmed said poor oral health can have serious consequences for children, affecting school readiness, confidence, and overall wellbeing. He noted that dental pain and infection often lead to missed school days and place additional pressure on emergency dental services.
He added that nearly 90% of hospital tooth extractions among children under five are caused by preventable tooth decay, highlighting the need for early intervention and improved oral hygiene practices.