Sharp increase in children admitted to hospital for tooth extraction due to decay

There has been a sharp increase in the number of children, for both ages 0-5 and 6 -10, admitted to hospital for tooth extraction due to decay, according to Press Association analysis of HSCIC data.

In response to the data published by the HSCIC, Professor Nigel Hunt, Dean, Faculty of Dental Surgery said:

“An almost 10% (9.81%) increase in the number of children being admitted to hospital for tooth extraction due to decay over a 4 year period is unacceptable. Not only is tooth decay distressing to children and parents, it has serious social and financial implications. The need for tooth extraction continues to be the number one reason why 5-9 year old children are admitted to hospital.

“This issue urgently needs to be addressed, especially since 90 per cent of tooth decay is preventable.

“The problem is partly one of improving oral health education. The Government and dental professionals need to work together to raise awareness of the impact of sugar on tooth decay and improve children’s access to NHS dental services. Around 40% of children still do not visit the dentist each year. Regular visits to the dentist encourage good oral health and provide rapid diagnosis and treatment to prevent children from being hospitalised due to tooth decay.”