Over 50% of 5-year-olds in Bolton have dental decay
New data shows that over 50% of 5-year-olds in Bolton have dental decay.
Figures from the National Dental Epidemiology Programme for 2021/2022 revealed that 52.5% of 5-year-olds had signs of enamel wear and 42.8% had symptoms of more serious decay, which affects the dentin layer beneath the enamel. Data used to calculate rates of dental disease in Bolton was based on oral examinations carried out on 363 of the town’s 3,990 5-year-olds.
Rates of decay in Bolton are significantly higher than the national average for England. Across the country, data was gathered from 62,000 children who all attended mainstream state schools. Of those analysed, 29.3% had enamel wear and 23.7% had tooth decay.
Rates in the North West were the highest in the country at 38.7%. The lowest rate of decay was recorded in the South West, where 23.3% of youngsters have decay.
The report suggests that high rates of dental issues among young children are linked primarily to eating and drinking sugary and acidic food and drinks.
Dr Zuber Bagasi, the owner of Synergy Dental Group, which has several practices in the North West, said that the importance of looking after the baby teeth cannot be underestimated. There is currently a programme in Greater Manchester, which is designed to underline the importance of caring for the teeth at an early age. There is also a wider plan to try to improve oral health among young children in the region and close gaps.
For more news click here.
Join this Discussion