MP criticises Teesside dental health proposals

Posted by Yvonne Wallace

Concerns have been voiced over oral health proposals in Teesside which could see the creation of a new orthodontic centre.

Stockton North MP Alex Cunningham has criticised the plans to see specialist treatment delivered in Middlesbrough and Northallerton, although the changes have been backed by a new report.

Speaking to local newspaper the Gazette, Mr Cunningham said he was disappointed the scrutiny committee is going to allow oral health services in Teesside to be “abandoned”.

Orthodontic services at several locations, including hospitals in Stockton and Hartlepool, are to be removed under the proposals.

The MP added: “I do however welcome the statement that the committee expects the trust to continue its efforts to recruit.”

Lead researcher Emily Chen from the Veterans General Hospital in Taipei recently published a study showing those who have their teeth professionally cleaned on a regular basis are reducing their chances of a heart attack, the Daily Mail reported.