New Zealand children's decaying teeth problem

  • 07/05/2018

A huge number of children are suffering from decaying teeth in New Zealand which could be easily prevented, a public healthcare leader says.

In New Zealand, figures show more than 40 percent of five-year-olds suffer with some form of tooth decay.

Although this issue is declining internationally, we can't seem to get it right here in New Zealand.

Hapai Te Hauora chief executive Lance Norman says the issue is about the Government being able to look after our vulnerable children.

He says it's not the families fault but faults within the health system itself.

"If we invested in preventative care and preventative measures, this would actually save the country a lot of money." 

Sugary drinks were a big problem and reducing them would help the problem as well as encourging families to have regular dental check ups. 

Watch the video above for the full interview with The Project team.

Newshub.