UK - SomersetDistrict’s dental health improves

According to figures released by Public Health England, the amount of tooth decay in children aged five years old in the district dropped to 18.1 per cent during 2014 to 2015, meaning North Somerset now has the fourth best figure in the South West and is comfortably below the region’s 21.5 per cent average.

This is in contrast to the 23.5 per cent figure in 2013-2014 when North Somerset was found to have the third highest number of children suffering from tooth decay out of the 15 local authorities in the South West.

The pattern of improvement in tooth decay levels has been credited to parents and carers encouraging good dental hygiene habits in children from an early age.

A spokesman for NHS England said: “This is the first improvement in results since 2012 which is great news.

“This is due to greater awareness among parents of the importance of a healthy low sugar diet and fluoride toothpaste.

“It’s never too early to take children to the dentist for advice on caring for teeth, to encourage healthy dental habits and to spot problems early.

“With a few tips, such as making sure children are brushing properly and cutting down on sugar, parents can be reassured of their child’s dental health.”

Nationally, the number of children aged five suffering from tooth decay has dropped to its lowest level in almost a decade and stands at less than 25 per cent – a 20 per cent decrease since 2008 when it was as high as 30.6 per cent.