Tony McLoughlin (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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819. To ask the Minister for Health the status of dental health packages for persons under six years of age and comprehensive preventive dental health programmes for persons under 12 years of age as set out in A Programme for a Partnership Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19313/17]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Dental services for children up to 16 years of age are provided by the Public Dental Service of the Health Service Executive through its dental clinics. This includes emergency services and referral as appropriate to children under 6. A targeted fissure sealant programme is provided for children aged 6 to 8 and 11 to 13 (usually 2nd and 6th class in primary school). In addition, a screening programme is provided for these age groups with necessary interventions for permanent teeth including fillings and extractions. Children aged 9-11 may receive a screening and necessary interventions where resources allow.

The National Oral Health Policy which is being led by the Chief Dental Officer in the Department will inform future provision of dental services. It will take account of commitments in the Programme for Government and have regard to the funding available to facilitate such measures.