Reasons for inequalities in the dental health of children

Abstract

AbstractThe dramatic improvements in the dental health of children in Great Britain during the past 20 years can be attributed primarily to the introduction and use of clinically proven fluoride toothpastes. Nevertheless, considerable disparities are evident in the caries experience of children in different regions and health authorities. Available evidence indicates that non or infrequent users of fluoride toothpaste are more likely to develop caries than frequent users and it is suggested that purchasing authorities should support initiatives that make fluoride toothpaste more available to poorer families.