Pontefract's Ropergate Dental Care offers NHS care for children
A Pontefract dentist is looking to register more children for NHS appointments to combat a rise in tooth decay cases in the area.
The practice says there is a rising number of tooth decay in children due to a lack of access to an NHS dentist with the region reporting higher rates than average, particularly among five year olds.
To help tackle the issue, Ropergate Dental Care is looking to register more children for NHS appointments at the practice to ensure any tooth decay is picked up early and treated before hospitalisation is required.
The Ropergate dental staff are also helping to raise awareness around oral health among local families.
Topics include the importance of fluoride application, as well as the Dental Check by One campaign which was established by the British Society of Paediatric Dentistry (BSPD) in partnership with the Office of the Chief Dental Officer for England to ensure all children see a dentist as their teeth come through, or by their first birthday, at the latest.
Dr James Harrison, clinical director and dentist at Ropergate Dental Care, said children can avoid tooth decay by limiting the amount of sugar they consume and brushing their teeth regularly with fluoride toothpaste.
"Ropergate Dental Care is committed to ensuring children have access to an NHS dentist from as soon as they have teeth.
"Early detection of tooth decay is key by visiting the dentist from a young age.”
To register your baby, toddler, child or teenager for an NHS place, email [email protected]