Fresh Calls For Water Fluoridation After Shocking Children’s Oral Health Statistics Revealed

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Public health experts have issued a fresh call for water fluoridation after shocking statistics relating to children’s oral health in Bradford were revealed.

The new figures suggest that three children are having teeth extracted in hospital under general anaesthetic every week in Bradford. The statistics show that 462 children aged under 5 were admitted to hospital for dental treatment over a three year period, which equates to just under three children per week. The figures do not include extractions carried out in dental surgeries.

Figures for the surrounding areas of Leeds, Kirklees and Calderdale, were also worryingly high.

In light of the news, Public Health England has called for consideration to be given to water fluoridation schemes in areas where decay is rife. According to the organisation, decay is an alarming problem in deprived areas of the country and adding fluoride to the water would have a dramatic impact on children’s oral health. Fluoride helps to strengthen the teeth and reduce the risk of decay.

A spokesman for Bradford Council said that there had not been a decision on the issue of fluoridation and any changes to the current water system would have to be approved by local people. However, the spokesman did stress that parents have been encouraged to take their children for fluoride varnish treatment.

Practice manager at Parkside Road Dental Care Unit, Deborah Cochran, said that it is not uncommon for dentists to be faced with children who have no idea what a toothbrush is and preventing decay is a real challenge in the local area. She suggested that water fluoridation would make a significant difference, but education should be a priority, as people have the ability to lower their risk of decay once they understand what it is and how it can be prevented.

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