Kids in some of the poorest parts of Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire are to be given help to keep a sparkling smile.

The Childsmile programme is a national initiative created to offer little ones up to the age of six a special fluoride varnish on their teeth, to help prevent decay.

Along with regular brushing, research shows that fluoride varnish is highly effective at preventing rot from setting in and keeping smiles shining brightly.

And children from deprived areas of Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire are to benefit after additional funding for the initiative was granted through the Fairer Scotland Action Plan.

The cash boost will enable the oral health service team to reach an extra 60 schools and nurseries in the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde area.

The full list of primaries and nurseries which will be included has yet to be finalised but NHS chiefs have confirmed the scheme will be rolled out in Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire.

Frances McLinden, NHS general manager for oral health, said: “Tooth decay is a widespread condition and a particular problem in the Greater Glasgow and Clyde area.

“We have seen significant improvements over the last 10 years, due to a number of interventions. However, inequalities still exist.

“This additional funding will help us to address and reduce these inequalities within the most deprived areas.

“We are delighted with this opportunity, which will help us to ensure there are many more healthy smiles across Greater Glasgow and Clyde.”

The extra cash is also good news for 10 young people who have been supported through a Modern Apprenticeship programme as dental health support workers.

Mrs McLinden added: “Having now graduated, they have secured permanent posts with us and they will play a key part in delivering this programme out in our communities.”