Percentage of children across Lanarkshire with no dental decay showing significant improvements

The percentage of children across Lanarkshire with no obvious dental decay is showing significant improvements. The National Dental Inspection Programme (NDIP) is carried out annually in all health boards within Scotland with support from the Scottish Dental Epidemiology Co-ordinating Committee.

Throughout the course of the programme, dental staff carry out dental inspections for primary one and primary seven pupils, with detailed inspections alternating annually between P1 and P7. The main aim of NDIP is to inform parents and care-givers of the dental health status of the child in their care.

The most recent NDIP report for 2023/24 has shown that for the first time, the number of children with no signs of tooth decay in Lanarkshire is now above the Scottish average. Professor Soumen Sengupta, Director for Health and Social Care at NHS Lanarkshire, highlighted the importance of good oral health in childhood for healthy teeth and gums throughout life.

He emphasised the role of teaching children to maintain good oral hygiene habits, such as regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, in supporting their overall health and wellbeing. Professor Sengupta praised the positive findings of the most recent NDIP programme, attributing the improvement to the concerted efforts of staff, partners, parents, and children themselves.

Albert Yeung, Consultant in Dental Public Health, expressed delight at the steady improvement in oral health among P1 children since 2003, surpassing the 2024 target set by the Scottish Government. He underscored the collaborative work across organisations to promote good oral health for children and parents through initiatives like the national Childsmile programme.

NHS Lanarkshire’s commitment to reducing inequalities in oral health and ensuring access to dental care was also highlighted. The positive impact of these efforts on the health of children across Lanarkshire was recognised and celebrated by all involved stakeholders.

In conclusion, the improved oral health outcomes among children in Lanarkshire reflect the success of targeted programmes and collaborative efforts to promote good oral hygiene practices. Continued focus on education, prevention, and access to dental care will be essential in sustaining and building upon these positive trends in the future.