Maximising paediatricians' roles in improving children's oral health: lessons from Leicester

摘要

Aims To provide an overview of steps taken to improve oral health in one UK city and to review factors relevant to maximising the contribution that paediatricians (and potentially other health professionals) can make to improving oral health.Methods The article provides information on the strategic approach taken in Leicester, one of the most ethnically diverse cities in England, and also one of the most deprived. Over a third of children aged 3 years, and half of those aged 5 years, have experience of obvious dental decay. The collaborative strategic approach taken includes implementing a comprehensive evidence-based early intervention programme from birth (Healthy Teeth, Happy Smiles!) and a focus on professional education and engagement. In order to ensure sustainability and further improvement, wider engagement with paediatricians and other primary care providers is essential and is increasingly recognised by professional bodies. Literature relevant to the factors which inhibit engagement with paediatricians and others is reviewed and highlights issues of knowledge and competency, policies and guidelines, time and capacity and referral and access.