A new dental education scheme is bringing oral health advice directly into Somerset primary schools.
In Taunton and Wellington, the programme also comes with a touch of magic and aims to make dental care engaging and accessible for young children.
The initiative is being delivered through The Magic Dentist charity as part of an ‘Adopt a School’ programme, supported by Gideon Amos, the Liberal Democrat MP for the towns.
He said: "After years of declining NHS dentistry, children across Taunton and Wellington have been particularly badly hit.
"Our children are not just unable to get appointments, but dental education – like the school dentist – has all but disappeared.
"So, while I'm continuing to lobby the Department of Health and Social Care to reform the dental contract, it's clear that urgent new work – including work that is habit-forming in children – is needed if real prevention is to happen."
The scheme involves dental practices visiting schools to deliver oral hygiene education through magic, aiming to make learning about teeth both fun and memorable.
The first session took place on Monday, March 30, at Holy Trinity Primary School in Taunton.
It featured magician Callum Weaver, who demonstrated tricks designed to help children remember key messages about dental care.
The school’s involvement was supported by Wyndham House Dental Practice.
Rockwell Green Primary School has also joined the programme, with more schools expected to follow.
The Magic Dentist was founded by Nicki Rowland to address the growing issue of poor dental health among children, with tooth decay currently the leading cause of hospital admissions for five- to nine-year-olds nationally.
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Ms Rowland said: "The Magic Dentist charity is proud to partner with Gideon, working hand in hand to educate children – and their families – and create greater access to essential oral health provision.
"By combining our efforts, we are not only raising awareness but also breaking down barriers which prevent children from receiving the care they need.
"It is shocking and concerning that, in 2026, tooth decay is the leading cause of hospitalisation for children under the age of nine.
"It is time for us all to take action and do the right thing by our children.
"Together, we are laying the foundations for brighter smiles, stronger confidence, and healthier futures, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive, free from the pain and limitations of poor oral health."
The launch follows a dental survey conducted by Mr Amos, which received more than 2,000 responses and revealed that 64 per cent of children in Taunton and Wellington do not have access to an NHS dentist.
This figure is below the national, regional, and Somerset averages.
Lisa Eadie, headteacher at Holy Trinity Primary School, said: "We are incredibly excited to be part of the Magic Dentist pilot launch and are thrilled to be the first school in the country to engage our children through this innovative programme to improve their dental health.
"Anything that empowers children to look after their teeth - and does so in way which sparks joy and curiosity - is something we are proud to champion.
"We can’t wait to see the positive impact this will have on our pupils and their families."
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