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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 conjunction 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
Though over 80 per cent. of children were dentally examined
during the year, treatment coverage throughout the Borough varied
considerably, and because of recurring "set-backs" in securing
added clinic accommodation, facilities in more remote districts
continue to be substantially below the level originally planned.
At New Addington where commitments are unusually high, existing
resources have been particularly strained, and owing to unforseen
difficulties the position has lately given cause for
considerable concern. In this area, proposals previously outlined
for establishing an additional dental unit atthe Welfare Centre,
Salcot Crescent, have unfortunately had to be abandoned at an
advanced stage because of structural difficulties, and it has
not so far been possible to fix an alternative site for this
project. More recently the whole treatment situation has been
complicated by building operations at the (old) Overbury School,
which has necessitated the temporary closure of the only existing
surgery on the Estate, and the withdrawal of services to the
Stroud Green Dental centre. At the time of writing an emergency
scheme is being considered for the incorporation of a "relief"
surgery at the main premises in Overbury Crescent, and given
early approval it is hoped that this adaption can be completed
whilst the major reconstruction to the school is taking place.
On a conservative estimate this addition should permit an improved
service in the early summer of 1958. During the intervening
period the needs of all effected schools will continue to be met
at Shirley Road, though treatment may be required to be restricted
to more essential work.