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The following analysis demonstrates the gradual rise in the
acceptance rate during recent years:-

* Specials.-Those referred by Head Teachers with Emergency Forms
By way of comment it should be explained that the acceptance
rate mentioned above is for the Borough as a whole, and that in
practice this figure varies appreciably from school to school.
Whilst in certain districts the response may be as high as 85
per cent., in less enlightened areas this may be at a considerably
lower level. In spite of many years of continuous effort by the
dental staff it has still to be admitted that that section of the
community for whom the service was primarily designed is often
the last to take advantage of its benefits.
Reasons for Refusal of Treatment.
A brief survey was recently conducted into the reasons for
non-acceptance of treatment. Excluding those receiving bone-fide
private treatment, results may be summarised as follows : -
(i) Indifference of Parent.
These represent a comparatively small minority. Any
efforts to assist are as a rule resisted-even medical examination
is disliked. Except in the case of relief of pain, very
little can be accomplished.
(ii) Difficult Home Circumstances.
"Overcrowding," "chronic'illness" in the home, or the
frequent absence of the father, lead to lack of supervision of
the child and may result in dental matters being "overlooked."
Pre-occupation with the family business, or the fact that
"mother goes to work" is also a predisposing cause of dental
neglect.