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were greatly welcomed by the hospital staff and which the children found most
interesting. This was a new departure and one which can be of great value in
preserving the dental health and hygiene of children who are obliged to spend
some time in hospital.
Day Nurseries
All day nurseries in the Borough had a dental inspection again during the
year and the figures showed that of 264 children examined 58 were in need of
treatment. This figure of 22% compares with 25% in the previous year. Although
it is not possible for the parents to be present nevertheless the information
that their children do need treatment can be of value to them. Conversely the
information that their children are dentally sound has at least relieved them of
one possible source of anxiety.
Statistics relating to the dental service for expectant and nursing mothers
and children under 5 are set out in Table 8 page 34.
Fluoridation
Fluoridation is the adjustment of the fluoride content of water to one part
fluoride per million parts water. This is judged to be the most effective concentration
for the prevention of tooth decay.
In my last report I referred to the publication of the Government report on
the Studies and Results of 11 years of fluoridation, which confirmed yet again
that fluoridation was completely safe.
As long ago as 1966 the Council expressed its unqualified support for the
proposal to fluoridate the water supply. Unfortunately the Metropolitan Water
Board will not be able to take this action until there is a clear decision among
the London Boroughs in favour of the recommendation. It is hoped that in the
near future it may be possible to implement this most desirable and effective
public health measure.
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