One in Five Children Start School with Cavities in the South West
New figures have suggested that one in five children start school with signs of dental decay in the South West.
The statistics from Public Health England underline the prevalence of dental decay among the nation’s children, with the South West one of the best-performing regions. In the South West, 21.5 percent of 5 year olds had signs of decay in 2015, compared to the national average of 24.7 percent.
This survey highlighted significant regional variations and even in the South West corner, there were substantial differences in rates of decay. The figure was lowest in bath and North East Somerset at just 15 percent compared to Bristol (inner city) where rates were almost double at 28.9 percent. The regional average has fallen by almost 10 percent since 2008.
Despite improvements in figures, public health experts are eager to stress that there is still a long way to go. Decay is largely preventable and the aim is to get all children starting school without any signs of tooth decay.
Dr Sandra White, director of dental public health at Public Health England, said that the new figures represent good news, but more must be done to bring the rate down further. Health experts are working with dental practices, schools and community health services to educate people about the importance of good oral health and initiatives are underway all over the country.
The main messages from dental experts are to brush twice a day, visit a dentist regularly and reduce your sugar intake.
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