My intention is to extend dental treatment under the dental treatment services scheme to persons with medical card entitlements in the 35-64 age group later this year. This will complete the programmes as provided under the dental health action plan for the phased extension of routine dental treatment to all adults. I have made additional funds available this year to health boards to provide for this development.
My Department and the health boards are currently in discussions with the Irish Dental Association concerning the introduction of revised procedures designed to improve probity, accountability and patient access under the scheme. When I have firm commitment on these issues the additional funding will be committed to the scheme.
I am advised that calcium deficiency in the 35-64 age group can affect women's general health but teeth are not affected until the levels of deficiency are well pronounced.