73% of Freshmen Had Poor Teeth, Dunning Reports

X-ray dental examinations, given as part of the freshman physical examination for the first time this year, revealed that 73 percent of '59 had cavities in need of treatment, according to Dr. James M. Dunning, '26, Director of the Hygiene Department's Dental Health Service.

Because of this unexpected first year result, the Service plans to extend the X-ray survey to all entering students, including transfer, next year, Dunning said.

135 Almost Lost Teeth

Seven hundred and fifty-three freshman had defects revealed by the bite-wing dental X-ray. Of these, 135 had defects in urgent need of treatment if they were to avoid loss of teeth. All 1030 freshmen X-rayed received letters from the department indicating whether they needed treatment and the urgency of their case. About 70 members of the class failed to have X-rays or had defective ones.

The X-ray examination is only part of a dental examination. A leaflet recently released by the Hygiene Department suggests examination by a dentist at least once a year as an effective means of detecting decay.

The Department offers restorative dentistry such as fillings and dental prohylaxis by appointment with charges on the term bill. These charges are not covered by the new comprehensive medical insurance plan. Emergency treatment such as repairs to teeth injured in accidents is, however, covered by the plan up $100.