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Mr. L. W. Elmer, L.D.S., Senior Dental Surgeon, submits the
following report from Mrs. W. R. Thome, L.D.S., with regard to
dental treatment under the Maternity and Child Welfare Scheme:—
"The year 1945 has been a successful year for the Clinic. An
increasing number of cases have been referred for treatment. 356
acceptance papers were sent in, 283 from Thorpe Coombe and 73
from Welfare and Nursing Centres. Of these 232 attended for
examination and advice. 36 did not return for any treatment.
Of the remaining 196, 44 completed their attendances and treatment.
"13 patients were supplied with dentures, 22 dentures being
fitted. Among the completed cases were all the patients supplied
with dentures, which is significant of the trend of values re dental
treatment.
"Too large a number still prefer extractions and artificial replacements
to preserving their natural dentitions.
"To be of real value the provision of dental treatment should
be available earlier, so that the future mother can start married
life with a healthy mouth, and not be obliged to undergo treatment
at a difficult period; if referred later there would not be extensive
treatment to be carried out. Cases of gross neglect are much fewer.
"Women who have been in the Services almost invariablv wish
to have conservative treatment. This work has increased, giving
much hope for the future.''
(c) Tonsils and Adenoids.—38 cases were operated on under
the arrangements made by the Education Committee with the
Connaught Hospital.
(d) Ophthalmic Defects and Minor Ailments.—Children are
given treatment either at the School Clinics or by special appointment.
(e) Sunlight.—125 infants were referred for sunlight treatment
during 1945.
(f) Child Guidance.—Arrangements have now been made
for children under five years of age to be referred to the Education
Committee's Child Guidance Clinic.