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12
Though laudable efforts have been made in certain areas it
must be admitted that the time available for such work represents
a limiting factor and much must depend on the level of
other outside activities. Whilst such staff can no doubt make a
worth while contribution, the problem of securing adequate
"dental" coverage for all schools is now considerable, and as
has been found in the case of many Authorities, the introduction
of additional suitably trained personnel will in future have to
be considered for a further expansion of this work. Talks of a
more advanced nature have been undertaken by the Health Education
Officer and a member of her staff at Grammar Schools and
Senior Departments. Special efforts have been made to encourage
Teaching Staff to participate in this work. Dental subjects are
now introduced by certain schools when organising their own fill
programmes.
Timely enterprise has been shown by the School Meals Service
by the introduction of apples to the mid-day menu. Unfortunately,
because of limitations imposed by the existing budget, these
offerings had to be received in lieu of "afters" and the reception
by pupils was somewhat mixed. In view of the obvious
benefit from a dental angle it is suggested that in future a
grant might well be considered by the Health Committee to enable
such luxuries to be supplied as "extras".
Earlier in the year an approach was made to the local Fruit
Distributors Association in the hope that some form of group
purchasing of apples could be arranged for schools. Because of a
difficulty in assessing prior demand and a subsequent reduction
in market prices, it was finally agreed that little would be
gained at that time as the ultimate saving would be negligible.
Considerable interest was generated at a local Secondary
Modern School by a small clinical trial carried out by members
of the staff of the Royal Dental Hospital School of Hygiene, to
test the efficacy of a new tooth paste ingredient on the oral
mucosa. Some 150 girls participated in these activities, which
covered a period of approximately two months.
The Oral Hygiene Service "Exhibition Van" visited some ten
Departments on the New Addington Estate. Unfortunately, the
usual "playground" activities had to be curtailed because of an
abnormally cold spell, and the entire programme mounted in the
school halls. Subject matter chosen for each occasion
excellent, and it is hoped therefore that similar visits can be
paid to other areas during 1964.
General satisfaction has been expressed by both parents ana
staff at the comprehensive amenities provided at the newly
acquired combined Welfare and Dental Centre for the Waddon area.