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55
Remarks in previous Reports concerning the problem of
securing more comprehensive supervision for those in the preschool
stage continue to be valid, and though some progress has
been made, further initial study is desirable in this direction,
and the ultimate solution will doubtless depend upon a measure
of long term planning.
In this connection the practice recently adopted for including
a Dental Unit in the newly erected Welfare Centre for the
Waddon area is much to be recommended, for allowing a natural
integration of Medical and Dental Services and periodic surveys
of the younger children visiting this centre, should permit a
realistic assessment as to possible requirements in similar
areas of the Borough. General approval has been expressed by
both parents and staff at the very comprehensive amenities provided
by this newest venture, which it is hoped will stimulate
the demand for attention in this growing community.
In the field of Dental Health further efforts are being made
to bring home to parents the need for early and sustained supervision
of the pre¬school child, and useful support has been
forthcoming from staff at Welfare Centres during Toddler
Sessions. Informal talks on this theme have also been continued
to members of Church and other Organisations during the past
year.
In spite of the many doubts expressed over this controversy,
it is the firm opinion of leading experts in both medical and
dental professions, that fluoridation of public water supplies
still represents the most effective method yet devised for
raising the resistance to tooth decay, particularly in respect
of the very young.
Expectant and Nursing Mothers
The total number of expectant and nursing mothers referred
from all sources was 238, compared with 324 in 1962; as was the
case in the previous year the greater proportion of these were
sent from the Ante¬Natal Clinic. Owing to the fact that these
Patients have usually also visited pre-natal clinics, few cases
are normally referred from the Municipal Midwives' Service, and
then chiefly for relief of pain. The percentage of those desiring
the initial inspection who failed their appointments tends
to show variations, and now stands at 31 per cent., compared
with 33 per cent. in 1962.