Skip to content

Tooth decay in children across Wales

The Dental Epidemiology Programme for Wales carries out regular surveys to measure the prevalence, severity and the impact of tooth decay for year one children (5-year-olds) and year seven children (12-year-olds) in Wales. We also undertake surveys to measure the prevalence, severity and impact of dental disease for specific adult groups. This helps us to determine the oral health needs of these groups and identify oral health inequalities. The information produced helps NHS Wales to better plan and deliver dental services in the future to meet these needs. It also helps us to understand how the oral health of these groups affects their quality of life. Public Health Wales is responsible for the coordination of the programme and work alongside the Welsh Oral Health Information Unit at Cardiff University to produce the annual reports and infographics. The Community Dental Services in each Health Board are responsible for collecting the data in the field.