asked the Minister for Health the number of treatment centres there are here for children with cleft lip and palate; and the number of experienced orthodontists in the health service dealing with this problem.
Written Answers. - Child Treatment Centres.
847.
There are five centres where treatment is provided for children born with cleft lip and palate. At various stages of their development from infancy the treatment of these children may involve the services of plastic surgeons, oral surgeons, otolaryngologists, restorative dentists and speech therapists as well as orthodontists. There are approximately 20 orthodontists who may provide treatment on behalf of health boards for children with cleft lip and palate but only one of these specialises in treating children presenting particular difficulty at birth or in early infancy. Cases requiring his skills are referred to the centre where he provides a service.
Five new full-time posts of consultant orthodontist in the health board services have been approved and it is hoped that it will be possible to fill these soon. The appointees will participate in the treatment service for children with cleft lip and palate.