Improvement in children’s teeth

1st November 2013

Over 70 per cent have no sign of decay.

Children in primary seven have healthier teeth than ever before, according to new figures.

Statistics released by ISD Scotland show that 72.8 per cent of primary seven children have no obvious decay, compared to 69.4 per cent in 2011. This is an increase from 52.9 per cent in 2005.

For the first time, primary seven children in all areas of deprivation have reached the target of 60 per cent having no obvious decay.

The figures also show that the average number of primary seven children’s teeth affected by obvious decay has reduced from 1.29 in 2005 to 0.6 in 2013.

Minister for Public Health Michael Matheson said:"I am delighted that the dental health of Scotland’s children continues to improve.

“These figures show that 72.8 per cent of primary seven children have no obvious tooth decay. Although we have already met the target, this is the first time that we have reached over 60 per cent for children in all deprived areas.

“I would like to thank all parents, nursery and primary school staff, health visitors and dental staff who have all worked together to bring about this tremendous achievement.

“This group of children will have been part of the Childsmile nursery and school toothbrushing programme and some will have had fluoride varnish applied in primary school.

“It is great to see the tremendous work of the Childsmile Programme showing benefits in our children’s oral health.

“The largest improvement in oral health is in children living in our most deprived communities showing that oral health inequalities are beginning to reduce.”