CHILDREN have been learning that caring for their teeth can be fun.

Youngsters from three schools in County Durham were visited by dental health experts from North Durham Community Dental Service as part of National Smile Week, which started yesterday.

Bowburn Nursery School, Catchgate Parent and Toddler Group and Durham University Playgroup took part in the event.

Activities included a dental health talk, safe snack sampling, a lookaround a mobile dental surgery and a session on how to brush teeth properly.

Lynn Petter, dental services manager, said: "The vast majority of dental disease is avoidable, so it is vital that children are encouraged at an early age to look after their teeth and gums.

"We encourage parents to take their children to a dentist as soon as they get their first teeth, at around six months old, to help ensure they receive the advice they need to help keep their children's teeth healthy for life."