Magic, not misery

An innovative scheme to take dental care advice into local primary schools – with a touch of magic – was launched in Somerset on Monday.

Taunton and Wellington’s MP, Gideon Amos, 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 Gideon launched a dental survey across his constituency which attracted more than 2,000 responses.

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

The initiative was launched at Holy Trinity Primary School in Taunton and included magician Callum Weaver teaching pupils some of the tricks he has developed to help children learn more about caring for their teeth.

Holy Trinity is the first school to take part – thanks to support from Wyndham House Dental Practice. Rockwell Green Primary School has also signed up with other local schools 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.

Gideon 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.”

Nicki 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.”

Lisa Eadie, Headteacher of Holy Trinity, commented: “We are incredibly excited to be part of the Magic Dentist pilot launch and are thrilled to be the first school in the country to engage our children through this innovative programme to improve their dental health.

“Anything that empowers children to look after their teeth - and does so in way which sparks joy and curiosity - is something we are proud to champion.

“We can’t wait to see the positive impact this will have on our pupils and their families.”