Free dental check-ups extended to all children under 16

Every child under sixteen will be entitled to two free dental check-ups a year from next spring, the health ministry announced.

Dentists welcomed the move but said more training places are needed, as many practices in rural areas are already full.

The minister is expected to visit several regions next month to explain the changes to local councils and businesses.

Trade unions welcomed the announcement but said they would watch closely how it is put into practice in smaller towns.