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117
Is it not obvious that such constant poisoning of the system,
even if it does not lead to actual ill-health (as is frequently the
case), will prove a very serious tax and extra strain upon the
vital forces of the body? Examination of the mouths of the
children in the schools confirms the very serious conclusion that
this condition tends to progress rapidly, and the unhealthy state
of the mouths and teeth goes from bad to worse.
It will, therefore, next be instructive to enquire what are the
causes of this condition.
It is primarily due to dental caries (decay of the teeth). This
by far the most common, yet at the same time most easily cured
and preventable disease, is due to various causes, the chief of
which are heredity, constitutional weakness, lack of oral hygiene,
improper diet, &c. These various factors may work separately,
but more commonly in combination, by far the most important
undoubtedly being improper feeding, more especially during
infancy and adolescence, but also during the whole of life. Foodstuffs
are commonly taken containing substances that readily
ferment in the mouth, with the formation of lactic acid, in small
quantities, but in the nascent (most active) state. The acid so
produced dissolves the tooth substance, and with the germs
normally present in the mouth, is the most important factor in the
causation of decay of the teeth.
The method that has so far been found useful for investigating
and recording the condition of the childrens' mouths and treating
such cases as are suitable is as follows:—Having no school nurse,
the kindly assistance of the teachers is obtained to write names,
age, &c., on the cards (Appendix A, page 121), one card being
used for each scholar. A convenient time is then arranged for
examination. Suitable instruments are taken to the school.
A careful note of such children as require treatment at the
Clinic is made, and printed notices stating the object and aims of
such attention are then sent by the Clerk to the parent or guardian
of such child (Appendix B, page 121).
A form, to be signed, if the parent desires the necessary treatment
to be carried out, accompanies the above. On the return
of these forms duly signed an appointment is sent fixing a time
for attendance at the Clinic. In most cases parents accompany
their children on the visits to the Clinic.