Bermuda's dentist to patient ratio is better than international standards, according to Health Minister Nelson Bascome.

He was speaking after a recent manpower survey by the Bermuda Dental Board showed the Island had one dentist for every 1,722 people. International standards recommend one dentist for every 2,000 people.

"We are in fact ahead of the game.'' said Mr. Bascome.

Only last year some dentists spoke out against an alleged manpower crisis in the industry.

But, according to a statement released by Mr. Bascome, the survey claims Bermuda's needs are well met with young Bermudians set to enter the profession.

"The results of this survey also show that four dentists have intentions to retire by 2005,'' Mr. Bascome said.

"But we believe Bermuda will continue to be well served even then because there are six Bermudian students currently studying dentistry abroad, who are expected to have completed their studies and return home.'' Twenty-six of the Island's 35 registered dentists responded to the survey but the minister said he was satisfied the survey represented the interests of the majority -- especially regarding an issue with temporary dentists.

Mr. Bascome said he supported recommendations of the Bermuda Dental Board, regarding "locum tenens'' or temporary dentists length of stay on the island.

Mr. Bascome said he was satisfied that the current system, which permits locum tenens to work in Bermuda for a minimum of one month, discouraged them from turning their work experience into more by "attempting to earn a few dollars while on holiday here''.

He said the association conducted a survey of its 20 members, with respect to the locum tenens issue, and it showed that only five dental practitioners had expressed an interest in having locum tenens for periods shorter than one month.

But he added that the board could consider special applications for locums and dentists could appeal their cases to the Governor.