Isle Of Man Oral health Standards On The Up

The Department of Health has revealed the latest data about the number of children affected by tooth decay on the Isle of Man. The statistics revealed that standards of oral health are poorer than on the mainland; however, there have been improvements.

Research shows that there is a marginal difference between the Isle of Man in England, as 29 per cent of 5 year olds show signs of decay on the island, compared to 28 per cent in England. More than 200 children on the island were examined in order to ascertain standards of oral health among the Isle of Man’s children.

The survey also revealed that five year old children have an average of 1.1 decayed teeth, which compared favourably to statistics relating to children in the North West of England. Research showed that 35 per cent of 5 year olds in the North West had signs of decay, with an average of 1.29 decayed teeth per child.

Figures from the Department of Health show major improvements across the nation since 2007. The proportion of children suffering from decay has fallen significantly from more than 50 per cent in the Isle of Man and 38 per cent in England. However, health bosses have stated that it is not advisable to compare the two surveys as the methodology was different. They have stated, however, that future studies are likely to reflect improvements in children’s oral health.

Clinical director of the salaried dental service, Carolyn Lewis, said that parents, teachers, dentists and health authorities are working together to improve standards of dental health and encourage healthy lifestyle habits.

Howard Quayle, Minister for Health, said that the latest figures demonstrate that the island is moving in the right direction. The aim in 2011 was to keep in line with the North West of England and the statistics show that rates of decay on the island are significantly lower.

IoM have only recently beaten off an attempt to fluoridate their water.