Shocked dental patients were left in the dark after a dentists shut unecxpectedly.

Visitors to the website for the Chapel Street practice in Llangollen were greeted with a message on Monday telling them it had closed and they would need to find a new dentists.

Stuart Davies, a patient at the surgery was surprised by the sudden closure.

He said: “I am shocked by this, it was completely unexpected as it was always a very busy practice. I am very disappointed because the staff there were excellent.

“People don’t know what is happening, it’s a big blow to Llangollen because it’s so hard to get onto the books of other NHS dentists.”

Health campaigner, Cllr Mabon ap Gwynfor, of the North Wales Health Alliance warned the closure could put pressure on other practices.

He said; “This was totally unexpected and has come as a shock to many people. This will inevitably put pressure on a service which is already over stretched, with patients from the Dee Valley travelling many miles for dental care.

“I have contacted the health board seeking assurances that they will make urgent arrangements for the patients.”

Health campaigners warn the closure could put pressure on other practices
Health campaigners warn the closure could put pressure on other practices

A Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board spokesperson said: “Chapel Street Dental Practice in Llangollen closed unexpectedly on January 15.

“We are making arrangements for the provision of NHS dental services on a cover basis until a permanent solution can be put in place.

“This will include exploring options for short term support from other nearby practices.

“Patients who require urgent treatment before they have registered with an alternative practice, should contact NHS Direct Wales on 0845 46 47.

“Patients wishing to see an alternative dental practice for the provision of routine dental care can find contact details for all NHS practices within North Wales on the health board’s website or contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647.”

Share your views about this story using the comment section below.