In the summer of 2021, a pilot started at CJG locations Escamp (Bentelostraat) and Laak, because the number of children who do not go to the dentist is highest in these districts. The youth nurse of the CJG asks parents whether their child goes to the dentist. If not, the youth nurse will ask whether Stichting Jeugdtandzorg West can contact them. In addition to this, GGD Haaglanden will soon start group information sessions for parents about oral health. Thanks to the collaboration, we have already been able to reach a thousand young children who have not yet gone to the dentist. During a visit, the dentist checks the teeth. The child also receives brushing lessons and parents and child receive advice on how to take good care of your teeth and mouth.

The figures do not lie: the percentage of children in The Hague who do not go to a dental practice is over 24% (0-17 year olds). The percentage that goes to the dentist too late is 34% (0-4 year olds). In addition, we see that 25% of the 0 to 4 year olds already has (had) 1 or more cavities. In some districts this is even 52%. This has adverse effects on chewing, biting, speaking, facial aesthetics, and psychosocial functioning. Children with poorer teeth smile less often. They are also more concerned about what other children think of their teeth. They also have more school absenteeism and more often have concentration problems than children with good teeth.
And that while the dental visit of children up to the age of 18 is free, because it is reimbursed from the basic insurance!

Due to the successful collaboration between Jeugd Tandzorg West, CJG and GGD Haaglanden, the approach is being rolled out across all CJG locations in The Hague. In addition to Jeugd Tandzorg West, other youth dental care parties (Tandenfeest, Tandentent) also join in. The pilot also fits in well with existing activities from the GGD, the municipality and the CJG for collective prevention. For example, the GGD has been advising parents for a few years now: 'go to the dentist with the first tooth'. As a result, parents and children receive early advice about good oral and dental health. And with healthy teeth you prevent cavities.