School children’s dental treatment

Wellington: “Some people seem to be stirring up trouble over my department’s proposal to give dental treatment to school children,” said the Minister of Health, Mr Parr, in a statement today. ‘‘The condition of children’s teeth nowadays can only be described as appalling. The menace to the next generation’s health is most serious. Last month at Trentham an examination of the teeth of senior cadets (boys from 14 to 18 years of age) disclosed that 70 per cent had mouths with serious dental troubles requiring immediate attention. One almost despairs of overtaking the evil, growing as it is, unless by preventive medicine. By this I mean teaching the young mothers of the nation the elementary laws of sound dietetics and health generally. Dr Truby King is next year to undertake this great

gospel of health. Future generations will reap the benefit from this child welfare movement. Further, we must come with proper treatment to the rescue of those who suffer today. There is already a shortage of dentists in New Zealand. The departmental experts consider that suitable women, with a two years intensive course, directed to the special needs of the school children, can well fill the gap.’’