Bongo (U/E), Aug 17, GNA - Seventy Eight children in the Bongo District, affected by Dental Flourosis, have been given cosmetic dental treatment of their upper front teeth to enhance their appearance and improve their self confidence.

The St. Andrews Clinics for children (STACC), Ghana, a non-governmental organisation whose parent body is based in the United Kingdom, undertook the one week exercise after 273 children had earlier been screened and found to have permanent mottled discoloration on their teeth.

Dr Maxwell Appawu of STACC Ghana explained that due to the high content of fluoride in the drinking water of the people of Bongo, children in their formative years who drink the water end up with discoloured teeth that look unappealing and leaves those affected open to teasing and ridicule from others.

"More often than not, children and adults affected find it difficult to partake in public speaking, especially in areas where dental flourosis is not common", he said.

He said young people who benefited from the treatment would find it easier to mix-up with their colleagues in schools outside the Bongo District as they would be able to talk and laugh without being conscious of exposing their teeth.

STACC-Ghana undertook the exercise with the cooperation of the Upper East Regional Health Directorate, Bongo District Health Management Team, the Bongo District Hospital and the Ghana Education Service.

Dr Appawu said the 195 children left would be attended to during the next visit of STACC, Ghana, to the Bongo District.