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"Ever Yours" which seems to appeal to the younger child, the aim
of both films being the correct way to clean teeth, and the importance
of oral hygiene and regular dental inspection. The showing of these
films to small groups of children as part of their normal education
I am sure is of value.
There seems to be a shortage of new posters and leaflets for
display purposes in the clinics; this makes this part of dental
health education difficult because the public soon tires of old
posters and leaflets. I have encouraged more dental health instruction
to individual patients at the surgeries; this takes time but the
results are often very rewarding.
Mr. Hodgson took part in the concentrated health week held
at Fairlop School. Films, slides, models and posters were used.
This was followed up by further films later in the year.
General Anaesthetics
These have been administered mainly by County Medical
Officers. As in the past the same anaesthetist and dental surgeon
have worked together as far as possible. This is important,
because extractions under a general anaesthetic in a dental chair
call for team work, which results, not only in easier sessions but,
more important, adds to the safety of the patient. In an emergency
each member, and this includes the nurse, should know his or her
duties and these can only be fully co-ordinated after working together
for some time.
During the latter part of 1964 "Halothane" was introduced as
an added anaesthetic. It has been found to be very good in the more
difficult case requiring a longer anaesthetic. The fact that a higher
percentage of oxygen can be given adds to the safety of the patient.
Very occasionally in an emergency another dental officer has
given the anaesthetic when it has been impossible to obtain a
medical officer. This, however, only occurs when it would be dangerous
not to extract a tooth, or the child was in great pain.
Equipment
High speed aerotors for cavity preparation have continued to
be used in all surgeries and they have now become an essential
item of surgery equipment. I have found that even very young children
will accept the noise of aerotors as part of normal life and if it is