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51
DENTAL SERVICES
Mrs. C. M. Lindsay l.d.s., r.f.p.s. (Glasgow)
Principal Dental Officer
It was reported in 1970 that is was expected that all sections
of the Dental Department would produce increased output in
1971. This expectation has been fully realised as over 2,000 more
permanent and over 1,500 more deciduous fillings have been
inserted with virtually the same complement of five full time, six
part time dental officers, one hygienist, eight full time, two part
time dental surgery assistants.
During the past year practically all schools in the Borough
have received a dental inspection. The few remaining have been
scheduled for inspection in January and February.
A number of patients have been treated with a topical application
of sodium fluoride which, in the majority of cases, has
resulted in the improvement in the incidence of caries. However,
it has been found that such treatment must be accompanied with
good oral hygiene and a controlled intake of sugar if such
improvement is to be maintained. Despite the time consuming
nature of this experiment, parents will be pleased to note that we
hope to continue this treatment to the limit of our capacity until
more definite results can be established.
In July a Dental Surgeon from the Department of Education
and Science inspected the Dental Services and his report contained
inter alia the following:
"The Authority is commended on its efficient Dental Service,
the staff are working well and an exceptionally good pattern of
treatment is provided."
The ready co-operation and efficient anaesthetics given by
Dr. Morris and Dr. Miller has enabled my colleagues to perform
their duties satisfactorily.