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Fewer children in Wales have tooth decay than in previous years, according to new NHS findings.

A total of 8,526 children, all in Year 1 at school (ages five to six), were examined as part of the NHS Wales Dental Epidemiology Programme during the 2024/25 academic year.

Just over 27% of children examined had tooth decay – down from 32.4% in 2022/23.

It means that on average, in a class of 30 children, eight children have tooth decay – down from 14 in 2007/08.

However, the findings show that when children do have tooth decay, multiple teeth (3.51 teeth on average) are affected.

The inspection was coordinated by Public Health Wales, alongside the Welsh Oral Health Information Unit at Cardiff University. The examinations were done by Community Dental Service teams in each health board area in Wales. 

Parents and carers reported that nearly one in four children with tooth decay experienced dental pain in the previous year.

Meanwhile, 17.7% of parents reported that their child’s oral health had a negative effect on their quality of life, rising to almost 39% among children with tooth decay. 

The findings also show children living in deprived areas were still more likely to have tooth decay and to have more teeth affected than those in the least deprived areas – something that has not changed significantly over time. 

Paul Brocklehurst, consultant in dental public health at Public Health Wales, described the findings as “very encouraging” and said: “This represents a significant public health achievement. However, it is clear that too many children, particularly those living in more deprived areas, are still experiencing preventable dental disease.”

He added: “These findings show why continued investment in prevention and targeted support for families who need it most remains so important.”