Our Teeth - How to Take Care of Them #246664

Physiology has become one Of the fundamental studies in the ele mentary schools. In connection with it is given instruction in the simple laws Of hygiene. Special attention is devoted to the evil effects of alcoholic beverages and narcotics. All this is commendable and encouraging to the friends Of educational progress. The well being of the body cannot be too highly regarded in the making up Of school programs. One logical result Of the more intelligent interest Of'the people in matters concerning the health of children is the introduction of ex pert medical inspection Of the schools. Thus far this inspection has confined itself largely to the sanitary conditions Of school buildings and the general health Of pupils. If there has been any specialization it has been examination into the condition Of children's eyes and ears, and perhaps also Of the nose and throat. One important factor seems to have been largely disregarded, and that is the need of a periodical dental inspection. The principal reason for the oversight is probably to be found in the lack of interest On the part Of the average physician in the health Of teeth. This field has long been left entirely to the dentist, and the latter has not, at least in the United States, been made a member of the boards of medical ex aminers for schools.