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24
During November and December a pilot study was undertaken to see if
it is possible to evaluate the effectiveness of dental health education over
a period, and also if the present dental message is understood and correctly
emphasizes the important factors for good dental health. For instance it
appears that the oral condition often receives reasonable attention during
the 'waking' hours whilst the 'sleeping' hours are largely ignored in many
cases.
Staff
There were various staff changes during the year which were disturbing
for both the patients and the section; however as we go into 1970 it is
pleasing to report that the dental section appears more settled with a full
establishment of staff.
On taking up his appointment in January the Chief Dental Officer was
appointed an honorary senior demonstrator in children's dentistry at the
Royal Dental Hospital, thus continuing his connection with this teaching
hospital. Mr. Bell was appointed as Senior Dental Officer in February and
continues his appointment in the children's dental department at King's
College Hospital. For the first time a Dental Auxiliary was appointed;
these girls are qualified by a special two year course and work under the
supervision of a registered dentist. They are trained and skilled in the
routine treatment needs of children's dentistry, and the addition of an
auxiliary to the staff at the New Addington clinic will help to meet the
demand for treatment in this area.
Four dental officers attended post graduate courses on different
aspects of dentistry, which were of value not only to the officers themselves
but to the section generally; whilst the Chief Dental Officer attended
two useful conferences. Attendance at these courses and conferences
enables the maintenance of an efficient and up to date dental service.
Quarterly staff meetings of dental officers have been started this year, at
which any problems arising from dental treatment or the service can be
discussed with advantage.
The dental staff have worked well and efficiently and I would like to
thank them all, and particularly Miss Jager, for their help and co-operation
in my first year at Croydon. My thanks also go to the administrative staff
of the Public Health Department for their advice and guidance during my
initiation into the local government service.
Dental statistics will be found on Page 62.