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68
(e) Dental defects.
Of the 1911 children requiring treatment found by the
School Dentist. 992 were actually treated, 774 being rendered
dentally fit before the end of the year.
Mr. H. A. L. Morris, the School Dentist, reports as
follows :—
During the year five sessions per school week were
devoted to dental inspection and treatment. In all 30 sessions
were given to inspection at the schools, and 177 to treatment
at the Clinic.
The programme for the year was similar to that of the
previous year and included inspection of all the age groups
and treatment of those for whom consent was obtained
from the Parent or Guardian. All the children attending
the Open Air School were inspected and treatment offered
where necessary.
The children attending the new School—Latchmere
Road—were inspected and treated early in the year. The
addition of this School brought about a slight increase in
the total number of children inspected.
It is satisfactory to report a decrease in the number of
children found to require treatment and the condition of
the mouths of the majority of the children is good. More
care appears to be given to mouth hygiene. Pamphlets on
the care of the teeth supplied by the Dental Board were
distributed. Arrangements were made for demonstrations
and lectures to the older children at the schools.
There is a definite improvement in the condition of the
mouths of the younger children, this, I consider, is due to
the pre-school care and attention, the work of the Welfare
Centre and the treatment of these children which is now
available; Also to the care given to mouth hygiene, the
importance of which is always being stressed.
The exceptionally good condition of the teeth in the
children from Dr. Barnardo's Home, who are resident at
the Home, is still maintained.
The programme as carried out last year will be
continued.
In conclusion I should like to thank all concerned for
their efficient help and enthusiastic co-operation.
H. A. L. Morris.