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12
SCHOOL DENTAL SERVICE
Report of the Principal School Dental Officer, Mr. P.G. Oliver.
The function of this Service is to provide routine inspection
and treatment for those attending Borough Primary, Secondary,
Technical and Special Schools. "Free-place" scholars at certain
non-maintained schools approved by the local Education Committee
are also eligible for treatment.
In co-ordination with the above Service facilities are also
provided for those referred under Health, Maternity Welfare and
Mental Deficiency Schemes. Particulars of work carried out in
connection with the former will be found in the appropriate
Report.
Introduction
Shortage of Staff together with a dearth of surgery accomodation
at certain vital points, continue to hamper efforts to
cope with an ever increasing school population.
Although, taking the Borough as a whole, over 70 percent.
of those on the register received a dental examination during
the past year, coverage for certain areas, notably Shirley and
New Addington, was at a much lower level, resulting in substantial
delays in treatment. The contributing factor in both districts
has been the extensive build-up of new schools, together with
the high proportion of senior age groups attending these institutions.
Because of its greater dependence on clinic facilities the
Building Estate at New Addington has been particularly handicapped
and despite interim measures instituted last year the
position at the Overbury Clinic continues to cause concern.
Plans for an additional Dental Unit adjoining the existing
Welfare Centre at Salcot Crescent have now recieved general
approval by the Ministry concerned; however, because of other
Education commitments it is likely to be some time before the
above accommodation is available. To cover this period additional
part-time sessions are being introduced at other clinics.
Following its official opening last year developments at the
new Centre in Shirley Road have proceeded satisfactorily, and
this venture has already proved itself an important asset to the
local Service. The advantages of integrating all branches of this
work under one roof have been freely commented on by members of
the Staff, whilst attendances by children have confirmed the
public appreciation of the facilities provided.