ORAL health of five-year-olds across the district is improving, according to a new report.

Figures show that the average number of decayed, missing and filled teeth in youngsters was 1.5 in 2014-15 – compared to 1.98 in 2011-12 and 2.42 in 2007-08.

Bradford Council's public health department is carrying out several measures to bring about improvement, including work by health visitors at six to 12 months for all infants and a community-based fluoride varnish programme for children aged two to four.

Councillor Val Slater (pictured), the Council's deputy leader and portfolio holder for health and wellbeing, said: "Giving children the best start in life is one reason why improving the oral health of our youngsters remains a key public health priority for the Bradford district.

"No child should suffer from tooth decay, but it's still a significant problem nationally and it remains one of the most common reasons for hospital admissions for children aged five to nine despite the fact it is almost entirely preventable.

"Early intervention with families is key to making sure parents and their children understand the importance of having good oral health. Learning to brush teeth properly with a family fluoride toothpaste as soon as they appear, reducing the amount of sugary food and drinks children consume and regular visits to a dentist are steps every parent can take to help ensure their children's teeth remain healthy."