Blackpool Council Keen to Introduce Fluoridated Milk Programme to Tackle Childhood Decay
Councillors in Blackpool are keen to introduce a programme to provide more than 8,000 local children with fluoridated milk in a bid to tackle high rates of dental decay.
Under the new scheme, thousands of children will be provided with free fluoridated milk as part of the council’s free breakfast programme.
The latest statistics show that 400 children have their teeth extracted under general anaesthetic each year in Blackpool and almost half of 12 year olds have at least one missing, decayed or filled tooth.
A study conducted last year revealed that children have lower than average levels of fluoride and the council believes that fluoridated milk could provide an opportunity to boost fluoride levels. Fluoride is proven to reduce the risk of tooth decay by protecting the enamel.
Councillor Graham Cain, council cabinet secretary, said that the situation in Blackpool is worrying, with decay prevalent in the city’s youngsters. The fluoridated milk scheme would help to reduce rates of decay at no additional cost to the taxpayer and parents would have the option to opt out if they did not wish their child to have the milk. Under the scheme, 8,000 primary school children would be provided with milk as part of their breakfast.
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