Vulnerable patients, including autistic children, are regularly being “left in pain” due to limited access to special needs dentists, the Irish Society for Disability and Oral Health (ISDH) president has warned. A senior dental surgeon in a special needs job may also work with frail, elderly patients or people with mental health conditions. These patients “really have no voice”, Dr Smith said, pointing to long waiting lists nationally. Many of her patients are on public waiting lists or facing long delays. In contrast, British dentists trained in special needs care are eligible for consultant status.

Source: Irish Examiner March 31, 2026 11:55 UTC