Dental Services Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 13 May 2014

Tuesday, 13 May 2014

Questions (656)

Seán Kyne

Question:

656. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Health if he will confirm the entitlements to dental care under the medical card scheme; if the entitlement permits two fillings per year; and if there is a waiting period of five years before a recipient may have a second or subsequent filling in the same tooth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21547/14]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Health

The Dental Treatment Services Scheme provides access to dental treatment for adult medical card holders. The service is provided by contracted dentists. The HSE prioritises for treatment patients with special needs, high risk patients and those who have greater clinical needs. A free oral examination every calendar year and free emergency dental treatment with a focus on relief of pain and sepsis are available to all eligible patients, regardless of their medical condition. This includes 2 fillings per year, all extractions, including surgical extractions, and a number of complex treatments. A subsequent filling on the same tooth within a five year period can be approved by the HSE where such treatment is clinically necessary.