CARE OF TEETH

Waikato Independent, Volume XXIX, Issue 3157, 7 November 1929, Page 5

CARE OF TEETH

THE LOCAL CLINIC. GOOD WO®K BEING DONE. Although little is heard about it by the general public, apart from those actively interested, or those parents whose children are receiving the benefits of the institution, the district dental clinic continues to operate smoothly, and there is no doubt that splendid results are being obtained. Some idea of the activities ( of the clinic may be gauged from the following reports, and with a view to showing how the work of thp clinic continues, progress reports will, in future, be regularly published. The return for the month of September shows that children from the Cambridge, Leamington, Hautapu and Roto-o-rangi schools were treated. The number of new patients receiving treatment was 60, and patients re-examined totalled 37; total operations on permanent tcetl} numbered 61, and on deciduous teeth, 192; making a total of 253 operations. The total attendances was 121. Children from the same schools as above were treated during the month of October. The number of new patients was 18; and children re-examined 53. Total operations on permanent teeth numbered 74; and on deciduous teeth 186; making a total of 260. The total attendances was 134. When it is remembered that the operations are of a varied nature, in accordance with the condition of the patients’ teeth, it will be appreciated that a splendid service is provided, and one that must have a direct bearing on the future health of the community. It is to be greatly regretted, but nevertheless it is a fact, that in the past parents, as a whole, have not realised their obligations. At the present time there are just under 300 district parents actively concerned through treatment being provided their children, and of this total less than one-third have met their small obligation. It is also noticeable, too, that the defaulters are chiefly parents of town children. The local dental clinic was provided by public subscription, subsidised by the department, and with the institution available all that is asked of the parents of children receiving treatment is the payment of the small sum of 5/- per annum. This is an infinitesimal obligation as compared with the benefits received, yet many parents have failed to pay up, and it is by no means to their credit. We have not minced words, because defaulters are deserving of this reminder. We know of many parents who would gladly pay double and treble the amount mentioned, but because their children were over the age limit when the clinic was inaugurated, they are prevented from receiving treatment during the whole of their school period. The dental clinic in Cambridge is a great asset to the community, and it is to be hoped that those parents who have children receiving treatment will not continue to let it be said that they are prepared to take everything and give nothing.