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An experimental system of project dental health work, based on the
"Discovery" method of learning, was started in some Junior Schools and it
is intended to extend this to other schools in the next year. Insofar as
this method involves: the children much more than traditional methods it is
likely that this type of learning will prove more effective than past
methods.
Premises and Equipment
A review of the standards of hygeine at all dental surgeries was
undertaken during the year and as a result certain improvements have been
implemented. As a matter of policy all surgeries are to be washed down
annually and to be re-decorated every third year. Improved methods of
sterilisation are being introduced and by next year all surgeries should
have the use of autoclaves. Priority is being given to replacing old
sinks by modern stainless steel sink units. Every effort is being made to
create good working environments and all surgeries have been equipped with
fans, and additional heating where necessary. At the North Hammersmith
School Treatment Centre, traffic noise became an increasing problem after
the opening of the Westway Motorway. To reduce noise levels in the
Surgery double glazing is being installed.
Consideration is being given to providing additional surgeries as
quickly as possible. In the meantime, the full-time use of a dental
caravan is being made available for next year. For several years a dental
caravan has been used in the Borough for up to two months a year. This has
proved to be very successful, particularly in providing treatment for
handicapped children and those children with both parents working who would
not otherwise receive dental treatment.
Stati sti cs
The full school dental statistics will be found in the Appendix. It
will be seen that there was an increase in the numbers of children treated
and in the number of fillings, and courses of treatment completed.
A fiqure causing very real concern is the number of failed approintments.
This shows an improvement on recent years but is still at the high level of
2.4.% patients per session. Further consideration is being given to ways of
reducing the time wasted by failed appointments.
Conclusion
This is my first report as the Principal School Dental Officer for
Hammersmith. Any Dental Service depends upon a team effort and I am most
grateful-to all the Dental Officers, Dental Surgery Assistants, Dental
Auxiliiary and Dental Clerks for their loyalty and co-operation during
the year. I wish to thank Dr. Cameron, Dr. Jansz and the Administrative
Staff for their co-operation and help during the year.
Finally, I wish to record my thanks to the Dental Adviser and his
staff of the Inner London Education Authority for their help and encouragement.
The efficient running of' the School Dental Service depends very much upon
good liaison between the Borough and the I.L.E-A. I am happy to say tnat
there has been a very high level of co-operation and understanding.
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