The Seychelles Dental Service

Abstract

The Seychelles Dental Service dates back to the 1920s, growing from rudimentary dentistry to the evidence-based dentistry of today. Until the 1970s, dental care was provided by a small number of dentists. However, since the establishment of the School Dental Service (SDS) in the 1980s, child oral health has been the responsibility of Dental Therapists (DTs). Today Seychelles has a well organised oral health care system in place with modern infrastructure and equipment and trained personnel. Locally trained DTs constitute 85% of the SDS workforce. A national oral health plan serves as a guide to ensure that programmes are developed in accordance with WHO global oral health goals, guided by periodic reviews. We present a resume of the major strengths and challenges of the Seychelles Dental Service, concluding with recommendations for staff development. Findings and recommendations of reviews and assessments of various dental health issues conducted in the country between 1977 and 1999 are summarised in the appendix.

Keywords: Seychelles; dental health; oral health.