Cracking down on unregulated dental entities: Health authorities take action
Health authorities in Jamaica are cracking down on unregulated and unhygienic dental practices, particularly those offering "false braces." The Dental Council of Jamaica is working with the police and the Companies Office to shut down businesses operating outside the regulations. Public health officers are involved in the effort to protect people from the risks associated with unsterilized dental procedures. The chief dental officer emphasized the importance of public education and highlighted sugar and poor oral hygiene as major causes of dental diseases. Dental services are being expanded in regional health authorities and hospitals, with Jamaica leading in offering oral services to pregnant women and adolescent girls. The Dental Council of Jamaica requires all dental auxiliaries to obtain annual practicing certificates and complete continuing education credits.