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The above table gives the findings of the medical inspectors
at routine medical inspections. Owing to the greater minuteness
of the dentist's examinations his findings, given in another section
of the report, differ a little from the above.
The figures indicate that some 32 per cent. of children entering
school have perfect sets of teeth. This is a low percentage and
has an important bearing on the relative neglect of the teeth during
pre-school age. The importance of the pre-school period, which at
present is relatively neglected, but is a time of especial importance
in connection with the care of teeth, is emphasised. Proper care of
the teeth before school age is reached would lead to much less
attention being necessary during school age. The leaver group
gave the best findings, a result brought about by the work of the
school dental service.
It is interesting to note that 3,500 children of all groups, or
41.0 per cent., were found to have sound teeth at medical inspection.
The need for systematic instruction on the care of the teeth
is certainly indicated.