In October, the government decision to not supply food vouchers to disadvantaged children in the holiday period may have limited families' options to obtain healthy food.
As DCP's we see the consequences of poor nutrition, including increased risk of caries. There is increased usage of antibiotics to manage the consequences of this, for example where paediatric patients present with abscesses and swelling of the face but cannot tolerate extractions at the dental practice. The services providing sedation and GA have very long waiting lists and are limited, often leading to children having multiple antibiotic courses.
Improving oral health by addressing food poverty in children would also align with the government's strategy to reduce antimicrobial resistance. We are soo fortunate to be able to promote positive change and support families at a local level. It is important, especially in the current climate to work with families to find methods to prevent caries, and identify those who need additional support accessing food.
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