Vol. 521 No. 1
219 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans he has to ensure orthodontic treatment for all children on the waiting lists at present before they leave national school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16709/00]
Children are assessed for the provision of orthodontic treatment at national school and those requiring treatment are placed on waiting lists according to the severity of their condition. It is imperative that their teeth are fully erupted before assessment can be fully completed and, as necessary, treatment commenced. Full eruption of the teeth is usually completed in or about the 12th year. While orthodontic treatment can be given at any age with a successful clinical outcome, the objective is to provide treatment as soon as possible after assessment.
Treatment for category A cases – the most severe cases – commences immediately or with the minimum delay. There are waiting periods for patients in category B – other cases on treatment lists. These vary from 1.5 years to five years.
