It has emerged fewer than half of those entitled to screening and treatment get an appointment on time.
Dentists are warning there can be a long term impact when children miss out on early dental screening appointments.
It has emerged fewer than half of those entitled to screening and treatment get an appointment on time.
The school dental programme aims to offer three appointments before the age of 12.
However, a shortage of dentists means many have to wait longer to be seen.
Chief Executive of the Irish Dental Association, Fintan Hourihan, says that can be problematic:

Sharp Rise In M9 Collisions With Garda Call-Outs Up Year-On-Year
Councillor Seeks Clarity On How Often Nightclubs and Late Bars In Naas Are Inspected For Fire Risks
New Figures From CSO Reveal How Much International Protection Applicants Earn Compared To Average Worker In Ireland
Unpaid Eight-Month Work And Training Placement For Adults With Disabilities Branded "Extremely Unfair"
Department Of Education Defends Kildare SNA Cuts Amid Claims Of Reduced Need At Some Schools
Naas Nurses Threaten Escalation As Staffing Row Deepens
Driving Tests Face Disruption As RSA Testers To Strike Next Week
Jury Delivers Not Guilty By Reason Of Insanity Verdict In Ballyfin Demesne Strangling Case