View report page

55
(5) Extractions
Permanent teeth 1,610
Temporary teeth 8,196
44
Total 9,806 65
Total 109
(6) Administration of general anaesthetics—
For extractions 2,909
Local 375
28
Total 3,284 3
Total 31
(7) Other operations
Permanent teeth 4,542
Temporary teeth 154
16
Total 4,696 -
Total 16

The foregoing tables show that compared with 1933 there has been a decrease of 841 in the
number of children treated, of 1,808 fillings, and of 1,416 teeth extracted, than in the previous year.
The reason for this decline is probably due to the fact that in April last the simple declaration form
was incorporated in the comprehensive form for all treatments. This has not unlikely been a deterrent
to the acceptance of treatment of early dental diseases, such as detected at routine inspections. It
can easily be understood that when disease is extensive and apparent, the forms are completed and
fees are readily paid. It is not of course the case that the returns have been greatly reduced, although
it is clear that the importance of early treatment may be lost sight of.
HEALTH EDUCATION.
Each Health Centre has its own School for Mothers, where talks and lectures on the care of
the teeth are given to mothers and school children.
The Dental Board's series of Exhibitions have not been made use of on the same extensive
scale as in previous years. One demonstration only was given. Experience shows that, in spite of
the fact that children take interest and appear to derive pleasure on seeing the models, and listening
to the lectures, and even to the extent of writing excellent essays on the subject, they are singularly
absent when notified of treatment.
Additions to the Service.—The nursery classes of children under 5 years of age, now attached
to various schools, and numbering 200, automatically come under the scheme for inspection and
treatment; also arrangements have been made with the Middlesex County Council to include in 1935
the inspection and treatment of pupils in Secondary Junior Technical, Junior Commercial and Junior
Art Schools in Willesden, numbering 2,277.
Arrangements for recovering the Cost of Treatment from Parents.—(a) Children
attending Elementary Schools. (b) Pupils attending Secondary Schools.
(a) Parents whose incomes are shown to be above the economic rate, as set by the
Committee, are required to pay 2s. 6d. for the complete treatment.
After inspection the parent attends the clerical department of the respective Health Centres,
pays the fee, and is given and appointment for treatment. That payment has been made is indicated
on the inspection card.
(b) No provision for treatment of secondary school pupils during year under review.