A motion from the Regional Independent TD Grouping, which includes Tipperary TD Michael Lowry in respect of the Dental Scheme provided to Medical Cardholders, was accepted by the Government last night.
The scheme is in crisis as there are less than 650 dentists participating nationwide.
This number, which is at a 10-year low, is tasked with serving 37% of the population who depend on the Medical Card system to provide their dental care.
The motion highlighted that the Irish Dental Association wants the number of training places provided by the UCC and TCD dental schools increased to provide more Dentists, Dental Nurses and Dental Hygienists.
Deputy Lowry says dentists cannot participate in the Scheme as the fees they receive are not sufficient to cover the costs of the service provided.
The Regional Independents also stressed that good dental health can prevent people from being susceptible to other dangerous health conditions.
There was huge support for the motion as TDs highlighted cases of closing public clinics and the unavailability of dental care for many people.
Minister Dara Calleary responding for the Government informed the Dáil that work is underway to create a workforce plan for the sector and that the Department of Health is working with the Higher Education Authority to expand training places.
The Dáil also heard that the Government is to introduce free dental care to those under 2 years of age this year and this will be expanded to include under 7s in the future.
The Minister accepted that the State is operating an Oral Health plan created in 1994 based on data from the 1980s.
