Children who can’t afford toothpaste are wearing Covid masks to hide bad breath

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Children are being bullied at school for not brushing their teeth because their families cannot afford toothpaste amid the cost of living crisis, according to new research. open image in gallery The research revealed that 25% of teachers said children miss school because of poor oral hygiene The research also revealed that 81% of teachers said there are children in their school who don’t have regular access to oral hygiene supplies, with 40% saying this leads to children being socially excluded. One Lewisham pastoral leader surveyed said children are still wearing Covid masks to hide their mouths, while 25% of teachers said children miss school because of poor oral hygiene. Martin Lewis explains financial help available to ease childcare costs The research revealed the extent of the impact of the cost of living crisis on schools, with half of teachers saying children had noticeable tooth decay, and 30% noting children in dental pain or suffering from halitosis.