Vol. 515 No. 2
181 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if the extent of school dental examinations is sufficient to adequately address the issue of children's dental health; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5747/00]
The provision of dental care is the statutory responsibility of the health boards. Health boards have adopted a planned targeted approach to the delivery of dental services to national school children and have phased out a demand led system. This is to ensure the optimum use of dental resources and equal access for all national school children to the same level of dental care.
The school based approach puts an important emphasis on dental health education and prevention. Dental health education programmes are now available to all national schools. Children in specific classes in national school, usually second, fourth and sixth class, are targeted for preventive measures under the school based approach. The children in these classes are screened and referred for treatment as necessary. The provision of fissure sealants for vulnerable teeth is an important element of the preventive programme. The programme has been specifically designed to ensure that children are dentally fit before they leave national school.
The small number of children who require more frequent attention are identified and the required level of advice, check – ups, treatment etc. is provided as necessary. An emergency service for acute conditions requiring immediate attention is available on demand.
Dental services have also been extended to children who have left national school up to age 14 years.
