At least three in four dentists have seen their incomes fall over the last two years, a new survey by the Irish Dental Association (IDA) has revealed.

According to the findings, 76% of dentists have experienced a fall in their income and among these, one in five has experienced a fall of between 40 and 60%. A further two in five have seen a fall of between 20 and 40%.

Just 13% of dentists who responded to the survey said that their income had stayed the same, while one in 10 achieved a higher income.

Some of the biggest challenges faced by dentists in the current economic climate include accessing credit and getting paid promptly.

According to IDA chief executive, Fintan Hourihan, this drop in income is due to ‘the destruction' of the two State dental schemes and a significant fall-off in visits by private patients.

"The medical card, scheme which provided a good basic dental service is now an emergency-only scheme, while the only benefit available under the PRSI scheme is an annual dental exam. In addition many private patients are now opting to have the bare minimum of work done where previously they would have considered more comprehensive treatments," he explained.

The IDA has repeatedly warned the HSE about the detrimental effect these cuts are having on the nation's dental health. It also pointed out that the cuts, along with the HSE embargo on hiring new staff, is having a major impact on the dental profession.

"About 80 dentists graduate every year and we estimate that 70 of last year's class emigrated. Unfortunately most of these highly trained graduates now see their futures on foreign shores," Mr Hourihan pointed out.

The IDA is calling on the Minister for Health, Dr James Reilly, to restore all essential preventive treatments under the two State dental schemes in the next budget.