Half of All Perth County Grade Two Students Have had Tooth Decay

A Health Status Report from Perth County Health Unit found 1 in 4 children beginning Junior Kindergarten in Perth County have already experienced tooth decay. And by grade 2, that grows to about half of all local children, with decay becoming more prevalent and severe as they grow. However, the rate of urgent dental issues discovered during school screenings has remained stable. Perth County Dental Hygienist Anna Read says the focus needs to be on prevention and earlier detection of tooth decay in young children. So the report recommends programs and services to prevent and detect dental issues in toddlers and preschoolers. The Health Unit will also continue to screen and provide fluoride varnish in Perth County daycare centers. They'll also work with primary care providers to ensure early detection and prevent of dental decay.