A SCHEME to take dental care advice into local primary schools was launched on Monday (March 30).

MP Gideon Amos for Taunton and Wellington, has joined forces with The Magic Dentist charity to provide sessions across the constituency via an ‘Adopt a School’ programme.

The scheme will see dental practices visit schools to provide education on oral hygiene and care – all delivered through “magic”.

It comes after Mr Amos launched a dental survey across his constituency which attracted more than 2,000 responses.

The findings showed that 64 per cent of children don’t have access to an NHS dentist in Taunton and Wellington, lower than the national, regional and Somerset average.

The initiative was launched at Holy Trinity Primary School in Taunton and saw “magician” Callum Weaver teach pupils how to care for their teeth.

Holy Trinity is the first school to take part.

Rockwell Green Primary School has also signed up with other schools in Wellington in the pipeline.

The Magic Dentist is a charity set up by Nicki Rowland to combat the crisis in children’s dental health, with tooth decay being the leading cause of hospital admissions for five- to nine-year-olds across the country.

Mr Amos said: “After years of declining NHS dentistry, children across Taunton and Wellington have been particularly badly hit.

“Our children are not just unable to get appointments, but dental education - like the school dentist - has all but disappeared.

“So, while I'm continuing to lobby the Department of Health and Social Care to reform the dental contract, it's clear that urgent new work - including work that is habit-forming in children – is needed if real prevention is to happen.

“I am delighted to be joining The Magic Dentist team as an ambassador to oversee the ‘Adopt a School’ programme in Taunton and Wellington, in what is a first across the country.”

Ms Rowland added: “The Magic Dentist charity is proud to partner with Gideon, working hand in hand to educate children – and their families – and create greater access to essential oral health provision.

“By combining our efforts, we are not only raising awareness but also breaking down barriers which prevent children from receiving the care they need.

“It is shocking and concerning that, in 2026, tooth decay is the leading cause of hospitalisation for children under the age of nine. It is time for us all to take action and do the right thing by our children.

“Together, we are laying the foundations for brighter smiles, stronger confidence, and healthier futures, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive, free from the pain and limitations of poor oral health.”

Mr Weaver added: “I am delighted to be working with the Magic Dentist Adopt a School programme. Magic captures children’s attention and creates a sense of wonder that helps important messages stay with them, long after the lesson ends.

“By combining magic with oral health education, we can make learning about caring for our teeth memorable, engaging, and fun.”