Survey seeks to find out Isle of Man children's oral health habits

The survey is aimed at gathering information on dental health in five-year-olds

Parents and carers have been asked to complete a public health survey explaining their children's oral health habits.

The questionnaire by the Isle of Man's public health directorate is seeking information about five-year-old children in Reception and Year 1.

Interim director Hugo van Woerden said it was part of Tynwald-backed efforts to improve oral health in children.

He said the survey would help "provide a picture of the situation locally".

Primary schools have been asked to distribute the online link to the questionnaire, which will be open until 26 November, to parents and carers.

Questions cover issues such as how a five-year-old child's teeth are cared for, what they eat and drink, and whether they visit the dentist.

Prof van Woerden said the survey, which is carried out every other year, would help inform public health officials about whether extra measures were needed to improve dental hygiene.

He urged parents to take part and "contribute to healthier teeth for our children".

Tooth decay has previously been described by public health officials as the main driver of hospital admissions for those under the age of 11.

Why not follow BBC Isle of Man on Facebook and X? You can also send story ideas to [e-mail]