A local dental practice in Birmingham is prioritising children in an effort to combat the effects of child poverty on oral health. Lozells Road Dental Practice has been serving the community for four decades, with principal practitioner Dr Muslim Khoja caring for generations of teeth. While Dr Khoja focuses on keeping young patients' teeth in optimal condition, Dawn Cluley manages the practice.
Helping Children from Deprived Areas
Speaking about the practice's goals, Ms Cluley emphasised the importance of 'helping as many children in the city as possible.' She stated: 'Here we try and help as many children as possible - and they most definitely come from one of the most deprived areas within the West Midlands.' She highlighted that child-focused understanding from dentists like Dr Khoja and Dr Hamna Khan ensures children receive treatment 'with no trauma' and can enjoy their visits.
Innovative Approach to Missed Appointments
Ms Cluley shared a unique technique the practice uses to monitor children. She explained: 'Any child that doesn't attend their dental appointment here at Lozells, rather than put them down as did not attend or failed to attend their appointment, we put them down as was not brought.' This shifts the emphasis to the parent, as adults who miss appointments are not chased, but children's safety could be at risk. 'If they're not brought by the fourth attempt, we send a letter to the GP and tell them how much we tried to get them in,' she added.
Addressing Deprivation and Education
Ms Cluley noted that missed appointments are common, especially in socially deprived areas. 'Unfortunately within more socially deprived areas, people have the perception that we go to the dentist when we're in pain, rather than attending every six months, and maintaining their oral care and the importance of education,' she said. She stressed that 'education is always key' when it comes to oral health, combined with a 'gentle but professional approach' to keep the next generation's teeth healthy.
