New oral health strategy launched

There's to be a new drive to try to improve dental health on the Island.

The situation here has been poor for a number of years.

Cases of tooth decay in children are higher than in the worst areas of England.

A new strategy has been launched which, in part, looks more towards prevention than repair.

It aims to educate parents and young people about looking after teeth.

Health bosses also want to make sure people can have access to urgent and out of hours dental care.

Clinical Director Carolyn Lewis says part of the strategy will involve addressing the problems seen with young people.[Play media file below]

Director of Health Strategy and Performance Norman MacGregor-Edwards says we still don't have as many NHS dentists on the Island as he's like.

However, he says they are making some progress in tackling waiting lists.[play media file below]

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