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70
of toothache principally in the permanent teeth. This resulted
in an increase in the number of permanent teeth
extracted—teeth that were saveable by conservative
measures when treatment was first offered; further, more
time is required to render the older children dentally fit
when they have not received previous treatment.
"As it is not possible to treat the number of children
found to require treatment at least once a year in the time
now given, 1 advise excluding- children from Routine Treatment
whose parents have refused for two years. This will
make the factor of work and time more stabilised, which is
necessary to allow a quick follow-up for treatment for those
referred at the Routine Dental Inspection, and enable children
of conscientious parents to derive the maximum benefit
from the scheme.
"It is very satisfactory to note the improved condition
of the mouths at the Routine Inspections.
"The parents are losing the antagonistic attitude
towards dental treatment, which seems to have been handed
down for generations, and when they have witnessed the
benefit derived from treatment, are quite willing, and often
enthusiastic about re-treatment.
"Since there will be no immediate increase in the
number of sessions in January next, it is inadvisable to add
another age group, so the programme for 1931 is to inspect
and treat children born 1919 onwards, and all the children
in the Physically Defective School."
EMPLOYMENT OF CHILDREN.
The School Medical Officer examines all applicants and
issues certificates as to their physical fitness.
During the year 40 school children over 12 years of
age were issued with certificates under the Bye-laws permitting
their employment on milk and paper rounds.