The average waiting time for public orthodontic treatment in some parts of the country stretches to three-and-a-half years, according to figures from the Department of Health.

Figures provided in a Dail reply by Minister of State Roisin Shortall show that the average waiting time for an orthodontic appointment for less complex procedures in the Dublin-North East region is currently 42 months.

The same average waiting time for orthodontic care exists in the southern region, according to the figures.

In the mid-Leinster region, the average waiting time for less complex orthodontic cases is three years.

For more complex cases, the average waiting time is usually less, but it does stretch to three years in the western region.

Over 11,000 people are currently on waiting lists nationally for orthodontic treatment.

The Minister, replying to a PQ from Independent Deputy Catherine Murphy, said the HSE will be commissioning an independent review of orthodontic services this year 'which is intended to review a number of service provision models and the required skills mix.'

She said the outcome of this review would guide what changes are needed to provide the best delivery of care given the current resources available and expected future demand for services.