BDA calls for joint action on tackling tooth decay in children

The British Dental Association (BDA) has called for coordinated action to tackle the children's oral health crisis highlighted by a recent report.

Earlier this week, the study from My Dentist revealed how a lack of understanding around oral health among parents is costing the NHS 22 million pounds a year. Tooth decay is currently the leading cause of hospital admissions among children, with 46,500 youngsters admitted annually to have teeth removed under general anaesthetic.

As such, the BDA is calling for a partnership approach between patients, family members, educators and the government, with the aim of communicating that poor oral health is preventable with the right precautions.

Scotland's Childsmile programme has been held up as a prime example of how this can be achieved, with the government reaching out to nurseries and primary schools to tackle oral health problems, thereby helping to cut NHS treatment bills.

Mick Armstrong, chair of the BDA, said: "Tooth decay is the leading cause of hospital admissions among our nation's children and parents, teachers and policymakers need to take their share of responsibility."