Equipped with two mobile dental vans, WSLHD’s Primary School Mobile Dental Program (PSMDP) program offers free school-based dental check-ups and a comprehensive preventive care package, including fluoride treatment, dental education, x-rays, cleaning and fissure sealants. Students requiring further treatment will then be referred to fixed clinics for ongoing care.
Dr Katie Metcalfe, a senior dentist and Head of the PSMDP unit, has witnessed the consequences of untreated dental issues in children.
“I regularly see children who have untreated infections and decay affecting multiple teeth,” she said.
“I treated a 12-year-old girl last year who had never seen a dentist and had pain from an infected tooth.
“She said her parents were saving to take her to see a dentist.”
Disturbingly, the National Adult Oral Health Survey in 2017-2018, found that 42 per cent of children aged 5-10 had tooth decay in their baby teeth, and 64 percent of older children faced tooth decay in 2014 (AIHW 2016).
To promote good oral hygiene at home, WSLHD recommends: Brushing teeth twice a day for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste; spitting after brushing and avoid rinsing to allow the fluoride to protect the teeth; maintaining a balanced diet and limit consumption of sugary foods and drinks; and visiting s dentist every 6-12 months for regular check-ups.
