Madam, – The budget cuts to dental health benefits for PRSI and medical card holders are having far-reaching effects.
Dental hygienists and dental nurses are facing reduced hours and job losses, but the wider implication is on our nation’s dental health.
The dental team have for many years been promoting preventative dentistry and as a result we were seeing a change in the mindset of people from attending the dental surgery as a last resort for relief from pain to attending for regular preventative treatments and enjoying improved dental health.
We are now heading backwards fast. People unable to afford regular care will neglect preventative measures. As a result the cost will ultimately be very high. Missed early cancer detection, increased periodontal disease and decay leading to premature tooth loss.
These budget cuts will be responsible for the loss of many smiles. – Yours, etc,