New report reveals significant differences in oral health standards between rich and poor areas in Sheffield

Sample News Big

A new report has revealed significant differences in standards of oral health between rich and poor areas of Sheffield.

The latest figures show that 31 percent of the city’s 5-year-olds have decay affecting 3 or 4 teeth, but the most alarming aspect is the difference between affluent and deprived areas of the city. In some parts, children are up to 4 times more likely to suffer from decay than children living in other areas.

The report, which was compiled by a body made up of representatives from Sheffield City Council, NHS England, Public Health England, the University of Sheffield School of Dentistry and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, suggests that average standards are improving, but there are still significant inequalities, which need to be ironed out.

Local dentist, Dr Nigel Rosenbaum, described the figures as “shocking” and called for more to be done to make the message clearer and encourage children and parents to prioritise dental health.

The report shows that levels of decay are up to 50 and 60 percent in areas such as Burngreave and city wards, West Ecclesfield and Southey. In contrast, rates are as low as 10 percent in Dore and Totley, Fulwood and Crookes and Crosspool.

The report also confirmed that around 1,000 children in the city are undergoing treatment in hospital for dental issues per year.

Join this Discussion

Comments are closed.