Patrick O'Donovan (Limerick, Fine Gael)
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468. To ask the Minister for Health the funding assistance available for persons who cannot afford major dental work for children under the age of 16; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24178/14]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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Such funding assistance is not available as dental services for children up to 16 years of age and persons of all ages with special needs are provided by the Public Dental Service of the HSE through its dental clinics. All HSE dental clinics prioritise emergency care for children up to 16 years of age, treatment for special needs patients and screening of children aged from 11 to 13 years, including referral for orthodontic services where necessary. The HSE provides orthodontic treatment to patients based on their level of clinical need. Oral and maxillofacial surgery is also provided in hospitals. Other services, including screening of children 6 to 8 years, are provided but may be deferred in clinics where there is pressure on resources.