Nine out of ten hospital tooth extractions among children aged 0 to 5 are due to preventable tooth decay

Responding to figures published by Public Health England today (6 March) which suggest almost nine out of ten hospital tooth extractions among children aged 0 to 5 are due to preventable tooth decay, Professor Michael Escudier, Dean of the Faculty of Dental Surgery at the Royal College of Surgeons, said:
 
“The figures published today by Public Health England are horrifying. Tens of thousands of young children are having to go through the distressing experience of having their teeth removed under general anaesthetic for a problem that is 90% avoidable. 
 
“Reducing sugar consumption, regularly brushing teeth with fluoride toothpaste and routine dental visits can all help children avoid the trauma of a hospital visit for tooth decay. 
 
“Children should see a dentist as soon as their first teeth appear, and no later than their first birthday. Poor oral health in childhood can often lead to problems throughout life. It really is vital that families take advantage of the free NHS dental treatment that is offered to under-18s.
 
“The Faculty of Dental Surgery would also like to see supervised tooth brushing sessions introduced in nurseries and primary schools across England, as similar initiatives have already been successful in improving children’s oral health in Scotland and Wales.”

Notes to editors

1. The Faculty of Dental Surgery at the Royal College of Surgeons of England is committed to enabling dentists and specialists to provide patients with the highest possible standards of practice and care.

2. For more information, please contact the RCS Press Office
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