Rebecca – BrightBites volunteer
I wanted to become a BrightBites volunteer because I believe in the importance of promoting good oral health from a young age. The opportunity to educate children about maintaining healthy teeth and preventing dental issues resonated with me. I had orthodontic work as a child, and I would have never been able to complete it if I didn’t maintain good oral health. Additionally, after working for many years in dentistry, I understand the struggles of the NHS and how no one is ever really taught how to look after their teeth. It tends to be you do what your family does, even if it isn’t necessarily correct. I am also conscious of the amount of money the NHS spends every year on general anaesthetic for children requiring dental extractions. So, I was also excited about giving back to the community and helping kids develop habits that would benefit them for a lifetime.
The resources provided by Bright Bites were excellent. The PowerPoint presentation was engaging and informative, with great visuals to capture the children’s attention, especially when I broke some hearts explaining how much sugar is in some of their favourite drinks! The supporting materials helped me understand the key points to cover and how to communicate them effectively. The toothbrushes and toothpaste given to the children were a fantastic touch, reinforcing the practical side of oral hygiene. Feedback from the school was that they also appreciated the bamboo brushes as they are more eco-friendly.
After delivering the presentation, I felt incredibly fulfilled. The children were enthusiastic and engaged, which made the experience rewarding. My main takeaway was the importance of making the information relatable and fun for the kids. Seeing their interest and knowing that they were learning valuable habits was a highlight. It reinforced the impact that even a short session can have on their understanding of oral health.