School Dental Milk Plans Back on the Agenda in Blackpool
Plans to provide primary school children with ‘dental milk’ are back on the agenda in Blackpool almost two years after they were scrapped amid fears about excessive levels of fluoride.
The milk, which contains added fluoride, is believed to help to reduce the risk of decay by strengthening the enamel. Councillors are due to discuss proposals to launch a programme in Blackpool again after plans were abandoned nearly two years ago. At the time, studies in the North East showed that some children had high levels of fluoride after drinking the milk.
Under proposed new plans, the dental milk would be provided in a bid to tackle high rates of decay, but normal milk would also be available for those who did not wish to try the dental milk.
Councillor Eddie Collett, who is concerned with tackling health inequalities, said that the strategy could help to reduce rates of decay, which are currently very high in the area. Around 40 percent of youngsters have signs of decay and 400 children from Blackpool are treated in hospital every year for dental complaints. The council will meet to discuss the plans in December in addition to other strategies designed to boost oral health standards.
Public Health England states that there is currently no evidence to suggest dental milk carries health risks. However, it is not suitable for those who are already taking fluoride tablets.
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