King’s College Hospital researchers urge parents and teachers to look out for signs of dental disease

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Researchers and specialists from King’s College Hospital, London, are appealing for teachers and parents to be vigilant in a bid to clamp down on dental disease. Dental decay is currently the leading cause of hospital admissions and surgical treatment under general anaesthetic among children in the UK.

Recently, researchers called for health professionals and educators to look out for signs of extensive decay as a means of spotting potential neglect, and they are keen to build on the message to prevent cases of mild infection or decay from getting worse. Decay can be relatively simple to manage in the early stages, but if left untreated, it can develop, causing serious infections and complications, which could even be life-threatening.

The authors of the report, Kathy Fan and Marielle Kabban, are hoping that their research encourages parents and teachers to take a more proactive role in trying to prevent dental health issues. The duo is keen to promote regular dental checks and also encourage parents to get involved in teeth cleaning and to keep an eye on their children’s teeth. If there are problems, for example, a child complaining of toothache or sensitivity, the next step should be to arrange a dental appointment as quickly as possible. The team was keen to point out that parents shouldn’t be embarrassed or ashamed to see a dentist, as some children are more prone to decay than others.

Dr Fan said that dentists recognise that parents have hectic lives, and they want to make sure that it’s as easy as possible for children to see a dentist. If, as a parent, you do have any concerns, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist. Dentists are there to help and promote healthy smiles, rather than to judge or point the finger.

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