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17
"As the 1954 Annual Report of the Ministry points out, the
precise relationship of dental caries to modern diets has still to be
worked out, and, until then, there would appear little chance of its
elimination."
The following report has been submitted by Mr. R. V. Tait, the
visiting orthodontist:—
"In most orthodontic conditions for which appliance treatment
is necessary there is a choice between fixed and removable appliances.
This year, the policy of using removable appliances as far as possible
has been continued, as these require less surgery time for their
construction and adjustment. Recent advances in the design of
removable appliances have greatly increased their scope; and their
use for intermaxillary traction has brought about a great reduction
in the number of fixed appliances required, thereby enabling a larger
number of children to receive treatment.
"During the year 90 removable appliances were fitted and 6
fixed appliances. Orthodontic treatment was satisfactorily completed
for 76 children, of whom 39 had worn appliances. In addition, 162
children were examined in consultation with school dental officers,
and advice given regarding their treatment.
"The following figures show the work done during 1955."
Total number of sessions 137
Appointments—Made 1,328
Kept 1,118
Cases brought forward from previous years 233
New cases commenced during the year 113
Cases completed during the year 76
Cases for which treatment was completed with appliances 39
Cases discontinued 20
Removable appliances fitted 90
Fixed appliances fitted 6
Cases seen in consultation with School Dental Officers 162
SPECIALIST CLINICS
(All Specialist Clinics are staffed as to Consultants by the Regional Hospital
Board. Day to day administration has continued unaltered.)