Agenda item

The Committee considered a report of the Interim Director of Public Health which presented Members with the Draft Oral Health Strategy for County Durham for consultation (for copy see file of minutes).

The Portfolio Lead, Public Health presented Members with an Overview of the report.

Councillor Armstrong confirmed that there was evidence in North West Durham that fluoridation worked and recommended that the information be presented to Adults Wellbeing and Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

Councillor Gunn welcomed the report and commented on how far schools had come with regards to restricting the amount of refined sugar in schools and encouraging fruit as an alternative.  The problems with regards to adult oral hygiene, were compounded by a phobia that many people had of dentists was and also poor oral health in residential homes.  The Portfolio Lead, Public Health also drew members’ attention to the link between areas of deprivation and poor oral health.

Resolved

That the report be noted.