Call for more action on tooth decay in children

A survey suggests children in parts of Norfolk have among the highest rates of tooth decay in England

A council has called for more action to tackle high rates of tooth decay in children.

A recent survey found Norfolk's five-year-olds had the highest prevalence of dental decay in the East of England, with the King's Lynn and West Norfolk area among the worst affected in the country.

Members of West Norfolk Council are calling for the authority to lobby the government to reform how NHS dental contracts are managed.

NHS Norfolk and Waveney said access to NHS dental services was one of its "immediate concerns".

Jo Rust, cabinet member for people and communities at West Norfolk Council, said she would propose the motion at a full council meeting on Thursday.

She said: "This council notes the dire situation with NHS dentistry in King's Lynn and west Norfolk.

"The number of dentists has declined at a greater rate in West Norfolk when compared to the whole of the east and England, yet our area has greater levels of need, more areas of deprivation and a higher number of older residents."

NHS Norfolk and Waveney says access to NHS dental services is one of its "immediate concerns"

A recent survey for the National Dental Epidemiology Programme (NDEP) suggested that almost a third of five years olds in England had some form of dental decay.

Alexandra Kemp, a West Norfolk councillor, has campaigned for better dental care and has called for more intervention in schools.

She said: "Lots of families have told me they can’t get their children registered with an NHS dentist.

"Some can't afford toothpaste and toothbrushes. We need to get basic prevention right and teaching dental care in schools is one way to improve dental outcomes for children in west Norfolk."

NHS Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care Board (ICB) said it would continue to work closely with dental providers to find ways to stabilise and improve access to services.

A spokesperson added: "The ICB is committed to ensuring that all patients within Norfolk and Waveney can have access to high quality dental services, but recognise that sustainable, long-term change will take time to achieve."