Tynwald approved increases in dental charges and an end to free examinations - despite fears that it will deter people from going for a check-up.
Charges will rise by up to 12 per cent from April 1. And for the first time there will be a charge for dental examinations. These will now cost £18.50, having been brought into the lowest band of treatment, band one, which also includes x-rays and a scale and polish. The charge for band one increases by £2 from £16.50.
Band 2 treatment such as fillings and extractions is going up from £45.60 to £50.50 and band 3 – dentures, bridges and crowns – is going up from £198 to £219. Anyone who is currently exempt will continue not to be charged.
Health and Social Care Minister Howard Quayle MHK said the charges would bring the island in line with England. He said it was the first increase for almost five years.
John Houghton (Douglas North) warned: ‘A lot of people will not go for a check-up. That’s very serious. Oral health will go down.’
Peter Karran (Lib Van. Onchan) said: ‘We should be encouraging people to have regular check-ups. We’re being penny wise and pound foolish.’
Tynwald rejected his amendment calling for a select committee to look at the impact of the charges on public health and to consider means testing. The Minister insisted the charges were reasonable and said money raised would go on new preventative measures such as distributing free toothbrushes and toothpaste to families with young children.