Dental decay in Ohakune

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 1, Issue 41, 3 April 1984, Page 5

Dental decay in Ohakune

Ohakune's dental decay problems are puzzling and concerning Desmond Smith, Palmerston North's principal dental officer who is responsible for the Waimarino, Manawatu and Wanganui areas. Mr Smith, who has had his own dental practice for 30 years and has been a dental health officer for two years, says that he is surprised to find that, while the rest of the country seems to have rid itself of most of the problems associated with lack of adequate dental care, he is constantly looking at mouths full of decayed teeth in Ohakune reminiscent of those dark days 20-30 years ago. Ohakune's dental health problem is 50% greater than any other area within the 40 clinics administered by Palmerston North. It is twice the regional average and is significantly higher ^^han near neighbour Raetihi. "This is not merely speculation or guesswork based on impressions," said Mr Smith, "... we have statistical and photographic evidence to support this alarming situation." "We keep a record of decayed, missing or filled permanent teeth at Form 2 and follow them through and these are compared with records throughout New Zealand." Asked if he could suggest any explanation for the problem in Ohakune Mr Smith replied that it appeared to be the result of

different dietary values and life styles. However, he was quick to give an assurance that he did not want to enforce or even suggest a change in these two factors ... that is up to the individual and the family. It was merely his job to inform the public of the consequenCes of their actions in regard to life style and dietary habits and then leave the decision to them. "We will provide the information that is needed ... it is then up to the public to accept or reject our advice." "Dental decay — which is preventable — cannot be prevented by the profession alone," he said, ... "it is over to the individual." "But I must bring this situation to the attention of the Ohakune public .. I would be failing in my duty if I didn't point out how radically different Ohakune's dental health is." Mr Smith said that one of the main factors in the early development of good, sound teeth was a well-balanced diet. But once permanent teeth had- been formed the only hardening influence was then external (flouride). However, because of the expense of introducing flouride into Ohakune's drinking water, he felt that a more practical proposition for a population of 2,000 would be flouride tablets. These can either be purchased directly from the local chemist or prescribed by the local doctor.

If parents had any reservations about the introduction of flouride into their children's diet they should perhaps consider the alternative of limiting the amount of carbohydrates — biscuits, cakes etc — consumed between meals. Dental plaque, on which bacteria thrive, is the precursor to decay and it has been established that the sweet carbohydrates encourage growth of these bacteria in the plaque. But it is reassuring to know that about 90% of all toothpastes available in New Zealand include flouride so the chances are that if you brush your teeth regularly you will remove as much as 40% of bacteria-harbouring plaque.