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44
Expectant and Nursing Mothers
The total number of expectant and nursing mothers referred
from all sources was 329 compared with 426 in 1952. As was the
case in the previous year the greater proportion of these were sent
from the Ante-Natal Clinic, whilst those from the Municipal Midwives'
Service were again reduced in number. With certain
exceptions fewer cases were again referred from Welfare Centres.
Though all those applying for treatment received appointments
to attend the Dental Clinic, absenteeism continues to be rather
high, and some 30 per cent. failed to appear for their oral
examination.
Expectant mothers examined for the first time numbered 268
against 319 last year. Of these, 69.8 per cent. were seen during
the first six months of pregnancy, compared with 75.6 per cent.
previously recorded. Though a slight decline has been noticeable
during recent years this figure continues to be reasonably high,
and has no doubt to some extent been influenced by failure in
keeping "initial" appointments. It is also significant that certain
of those attending at later stages of their confinements did so as
the result of pain or discomfort, which might have been avoided
had treatment been sought at an earlier date.
There has been some further increase in the amount of work
carried out for nursing mothers. In some cases this was caused
by late reference from the Ante-Natal Department which did not
permit of treatment until after the confinement; in others names
were actually received during the post-natal period.
53 nursing mothers were referred during the current year,
compared with 21 in 1952.
Treatment
Including those continuing treatment from the previous year,
371 mothers were dealt with, compared with 352 in 1952. Whenever
time permits full conservation of teeth is advised; however,
in this respect much depends on the condition of patients, and
their willingness to accept the above treatment. In the case of
those approaching confinements, removal of possible oral sepsis
must remain the first consideration; and completion of any other
necessary work is urged at an early date.
As has been the case in recent years there has been a continued
reduction in patients requiring wholesale removal of teeth
and provision of complete dentures. Whilst a similar dearth of