Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 1 May 2024
305. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if his Department should be looking at highlighting and promoting proper dental hygiene to the public (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19762/24]
View answerThe Government is committed to reforming oral healthcare services through the implementation of the National Oral Health Policy, Smile agus Sláinte. The Policy supports a comprehensive reform of oral healthcare service design and delivery, in which oral health promotion and protection programmes are one of the Policy's three strategic strands.
The Policy embraces the key principles of the Healthy Ireland framework, which is an inclusive, multidisciplinary model which aims to enhance the health of the community. The oral health promotion framework includes specific oral health protection programmes such as water fluoridation, compliance with the recommended use of fluoride toothpaste, and targeted programmes to reduce inequalities.
In line with the preventative ethos of the Policy, a range of measures were put in place on 1 May 2022 within the Dental Treatment Services Scheme for adult medical card holders to introduce and reintroduce elements of preventative care, including an enhanced oral examination, which includes health promotion advice, and a scale and polish (cleaning). The HSE's Strategic Reform Lead is driving implementation of the National Oral Health Policy across the organisation. Priorities for 2024, as captured in the HSE's National Service Plan, include progression of oral healthcare packages for children aged from birth to seven years of age supported by additional funding of €4.75m from Budget 2023. These packages will ensure that families can bring their children to attend a dental practice from birth, to learn how to care for their child's oral health.
The design of clinical elements for reformed preventative care for adult medical cardholders as referenced in the policy is also a priority for the HSE this year. These oral healthcare packages for both children and for adult medical card holders will include oral health promotion as a cornerstone of prevention-focused care.
