Responding to data published by Public Health England which shows a child in England has a tooth removed in hospital every 10 minutes due to preventable tooth decay, local Liberal Democrat Campaigner Carol Fletcher said:

“These shocking figures strengthen the need for urgent investment in dental health education so that parents and children understand the impact of sugar on teeth and the importance of good oral hygiene.

“In Walsall, 139 kids had operations on their teeth last year due to preventable tooth decay.”

“Untreated dental care remains one of the most prevalent and preventable diseases affecting children and young people’s ability to speak, eat, play and socialise.

“Sadly, the Conservative Government has cut public health funding by £531 million since 2015, so it is more difficult to raise awareness of issues like dental health”

“It is important to note that simply having regular check-ups at a dentist can help prevent tooth decay and the need for hospital treatment later on.”