Three new programmes launched to improve the oral health of Cornish children

Figures revealed an 83 per cent increase in the number of caries-related tooth extractions in hospitals for 0-to-19-year-olds compared to the previous year, 2020/2011.

Andy Virr, cabinet member for public health at Cornwall Council, said, “Extraction of teeth because of tooth decay continues to be the most common reason for hospital admission in children aged six to 10 years. This is preventable and oral health is an important aspect of a child’s overall health status and their school readiness and their ability to learn and develop.

“It could not be a better time for our partnership to launch this critical oral health pathway to support the oral health of Cornish children from nine months to five years and enable even earlier interventions.”