AIMED at promoting healthy teeth and gums a new strategy was announced at the first meeting of the newly-formed Bury and Rochdale Health Authority. The plan will encourage general oral health and include dental health promotion, orthodontic services, and the screening of oral cancer.

It was introduced to the meeting by director of public health Dr Kevin Snee who told members:

"The strategy encompasses all aspects of oral health. It's not just a healthy teeth campaign.

"We are aware that Bury and Rochdale have a relatively poor dental record compared to the national statistics.

"It is a major challenge for the Health Authority and this strategy would form the framework for future improvements."

Compared against national surveys Bury and Rochdale have large numbers of tooth loss in adults, and more five-year-olds are already experiencing dental decay than the national objective states.

"As well as having targets to improve our tooth loss and decay records, we have also included in our strategy plans to improve the oral health of the elderly, the disabled, and those of Asian origin," said Dr Snee.

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