Legal News
Study Uncovers Shocking Extent of Teen Tooth Decay in Northern Ireland (8 December 2011)
Date: 08/12/2011
A study conducted by Queen’s University has found that Northern Ireland teenagers experience Europe’s highest levels of tooth decay. Teenagers in deprived areas of the country were found to be twice as likely to have developed permanent damage to their teeth in comparison to elsewhere.
The report claimed that teenagers in Northern Ireland’s more affluent areas were benefiting from aesthetic dental treatments. The British Dental Association (BDA) has responded to the report by claiming that Northern Ireland must implement its dental health strategy. A poor diet, a lack of fluoride in the water supply and social deprivation are just three factors that contribute to tooth decay. In addition to highlighting Northern Ireland’s teens’ standard of dental hygiene, the report uncovered that teenagers in poorer parts of the country were increasingly likely to experience tooth extractions.
Speaking on behalf of the BDA, Peter Crooks claimed that dentists in Northern Ireland were not contracted to offer patients preventative treatments. The Department of Health, meanwhile, has voiced its disagreement at Mr. Crooks’ claims, stating that dentists received a regular care payment that was sufficient to cover preventative treatment. The department has insisted that prevention is heavily promoted across the health sector, including schools.
Duncan Lewis’ childcare law solicitors are able to provide parents and teenagers themselves with advice on legal issues in this area of law. The department prides itself on offering a professional yet approachable legal service of the highest possible standards. Its case-building excellence is based on its sound knowledge of childcare law.