Isle of Man MLC Criticises New Oral Health Strategy
A Member of the Legislative Council has criticised the new oral health strategy, branding it “very lacklustre.”
Alex Downie said that the new five year oral health plan, which was unveiled recently, was more of the same, which would leave the Isle of Man lagging behind other countries in terms of standards of oral health.
Research shows that rates of decay are comparatively high, with rates higher than the worst areas in the UK, which are elevated in numbers compared to other European countries.
Downie said that everyone in the community should be encouraged to get involved in the fight against oral health problems. He added that targeting children is very important, as they can learn good or bad habits from an early age. If they are taught good oral hygiene habits, they will be less likely to suffer from oral health problems in the future and they can pass on their habits to future generations.
Mr Downie also said that he believes it will be possible to secure funding to provide schoolchildren with a toothbrush and toothpaste and urged the Department of Health to consider launching an oral health education programme, which would save a lot of money on dental treatment in the future. Investing money in preventing problems will save money on treatment in the long-term.
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