Northern Ireland gets decay prevention scheme

A major research project is under way in Northern Ireland to try to curb the problem of dental decay among young children.
About 1,200 children, aged between two and four will take part in the trial, which involves painting a fluoride-rich varnish on the teeth to prevent the onset of decay.
The project, which will last four years, follows research that indicates NI has the worst teeth in the UK and is said to be the first of its kind in western Europe.
Michael Donaldson, head of dental studies at the health board, said dental decay in Northern Ireland was a problem, particularly among young children due to a combination of poor diet and lack of teeth brushing.
‘This project is really trying to prevent disease among young children,’ he said. ‘We don’t want to blame parents, we want to support them.’