Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:646. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health the number of dentists practising; and graduating each year; and if he has plans to increase this number. [23797/15]
View answerTuesday, 16 June 2015
Questions (646)
Written answers
There are 2,281 dentists currently registered with the Dental Council but not all of these are practising. At present there are approximately 272 WTE dentists employed by the HSE. In addition, 1,846 dentists have contracts to provide services to medical card holders under the Dental Treatment Scheme. This includes 184 dentists employed by the HSE. This year it is expected that approximately 81 dental science students will graduate in Ireland. As part of the new national oral health policy, which is currently being developed, a review of the required workforce for oral health services is being undertaken.