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DENTAL SERVICES
Mrs. C. M. Lindsay, Principal School Dental Officer.
The total number of deciduous and permanent fillings is roughly the same as 1971, although there is a
considerable increase in the output of crowns and inlays.
An increase in conservative treatment was expected, but owing to the illness of one dental officer and
the difficulty of replacing another who left the district, there was a loss of working time of approximately six
man months. However, the Borough has been fortunate in securing the services of another dental officer.
The Borough now has a full complement of dental staff.
In this affluent society it is increasingly difficult to curb the amount of sugar and sweetstuffs consumed,
in spite of innumerable talks and instructions on oral hygiene and dietary habits. Accordingly the number of
extractions continues to increase. The total number of extractions, however, is considerably less by comparison
than most of the London Boroughs.
The topical application of fluoride is proving very successful, but as has been stated the time expended
on this treatment is considerable and cannot be expanded to the detriment of other treatment. However, hygienists
and some of the dental officers are doing as much as they possibly can.
May I take this opportunity to thank the Head Teachers and Staff who have so readily assisted in the
dental health campaign and also the Health Visitors who have always been most co-operative with the dental
department.
To Dr. Morris and Mr. Miller our thanks are also due for their excellent anaesthetics throughout the
year.