A DENTAL BIRTHRIGHT

It is a well-established fact that within the oral cavity lies an important early warning radar system of hostile conditions that may be present. This part of the human body is such an important area where “predict and prevent” should be the two watchwords adopted from birth. When the first teeth erupt into the oral cavity their heavily calcified enamel coating becomes exposed to potential damage from an acid environment created by excessive sugar intake. An unblemished set of natural teeth is a precious asset. What greater endowment can be given to every newborn child but an oral healthcare insurance policy provided by the NHS free of charge that will ensure dental fitness during childhood lasting into adulthood?

The baby, deciduous or milk teeth begin to erupt within the oral cavity from about 4-6 months of age and form an important part of the digestive system. 20 deciduous teeth are gradually replaced at 5-6 years of age with the eruption of the front incisor teeth and new permanent molar teeth or cheek teeth. The mouth is strictly speaking the entrance to a cave, formed by the lips which provide access to the oral cavity, acting as a door through which food passes to be prepared for digestion. The teeth inside provide an efficient mill for chewing food and the incisor teeth also play an important additional role in speech.

Shortly before or after a baby is born, a personal child health record (PCHR) is issued to expectant mothers by their GP’s. This usually has a red cover and is known as the “Red Book” (15). This medical record advises parents to seek a dental review at two years of age despite far too many children having decayed teeth at 2 years. The first contact with a dental practice should be made by the expectant mother before any child is born and arrangements made for futureboral healthcare from birth.

More than two decades have passed since the idea of an NHS Children’s Passport was first debated (4). Had it been adopted, it is a racing certainty today that the results measured in health gains would have brought massive NHS Taxpayer savings from this preventive dental initiative and a healthier population of children and adults as a result. The incidence of obesity and Diabetes would be much reduced, accompanied by lower NHS spending.