To ask the Scottish Executive what measures are proposed to increase the number of dental therapists, nurses, hygienists and technicians.

In 1999 the Scottish Executive set up a working group to review workforce requirements for dentistry. Initial findings will shortly be published in the discussion document Workforce Planning for Dentistry in Scotland – A Strategic Review . This report will identify the number of dental hygienists, dental nurses, dental therapists and dental technicians recommended to be trained in Scotland.

Following the publication of this report, discussion will occur with educational bodies, health boards and Trusts on how to develop appropriate training courses and pathways for all the professions complementary to dentistry in Scotland.

A review group was also established in 1999 to consider workforce planning and education issues for the professions complimentary to dentistry, including dental nurses.