Dental charity launches new screening programme for children in London
A dental charity based in Hampstead has launched a new oral health screening and dental varnish programme to help disadvantaged children in London.
The Dental Wellness Trust held its first session at Mora Primary School in Cricklewood on Friday 4th February. The charity’s mobile dental unit, which is staffed by a volunteer team, will be visiting local schools and community centres to provide check-ups and dental varnish treatments.
The latest data from Public Health England suggests that around 50% of children in London have not seen a dentist in the last year.
At the clinic at Mora Primary, the charity screened 250 children. The next stop on the tour will be Islamia Primary School in Queen’s Park on Friday 11th February. The team is hoping to see another 50 children.
Fluoride varnish treatment will be provided for children with parental consent. Fluoride varnish is a preventative treatment, which strengthens the enamel to reduce the risk of decay.
Dr Linda Greenwall, founder of the trust, described the current situation as “truly shocking.” Rates of decay in London were high before the pandemic, but the last two years have made the situation worse. More children need dental care and many who could have had fillings now need extractions.
During the pandemic, the charity expanded its toothbrushing scheme in nurseries and schools to help more than 10,000 children. The goal for the screening programme is to roll the initiative out across London.
Deputy headteacher at Mora Primary School, Kate Bass, said that the pandemic has had a negative impact on children’s health, with oral health being overlooked. Schemes run by charities like the Dental Wellness Trust make a huge difference, particularly for children from disadvantaged communities.
For more news click here.
Join this Discussion