A TAVISTOCK dentist and her friend Al E Gator visited the children of Whitchurch Montessori Nursery School recently, to spread the message of good oral health as part of National Smile Month.

Dental surgeon Dr Ann Cummins, from Abbey Mead Dental Practice, visited the nursery with her puppet companion Al E Gator to educate the children about the importance of teeth brushing and eating the right foods, and demonstrate brushing techniques.

During the visit, healthy snacks were discussed as well as the correct amount and type of toothpaste to use and the importance of brushing twice a day.

Dr Cummins said: 'I am delighted to get involved in National Smile Month and give a little back to the community. Good oral health can be great fun. My children always loved this kind of educational visit when they attended Montessori.'

The visit coincided with the recent launch of Twentieth Century Fox's Tooth Fairy Movie, and so Dr Cummins gave the children promotional stickers and material as the film enforces the idea that taking good care of teeth is cool.

Dr Cummins tips for parents include:

l Take children with you to the dentist from as young an age as possible.

l Brush with a fluoride toothpaste for two minutes twice daily.

l Supervise children's brushing until at least seven years old.

l Spit, don't rinse away the paste.