Wednesday 19 August 2009

Dentists have an important role

It’s good to see that the important role of dentists in detecting child neglect and abuse has been more clearly defined in a new policy developed for the British Society of Paediatric Dentistry

Neglect of a child’s teeth is a very serious concern in itself. Untreated dental caries can result in extreme pain and discomfort. But dentists are also uniquely well placed to spot possible non-accidental injuries to the head, face and neck. Their role in detecting child abuse and neglect is crucial.