Manx Care 'attempting to establish contact' with dental provider as patients face uncertainty

Smile Dental Care 'not currently providing services'

Manx Care says it is trying to establish contact with a dental provider after becoming aware that it is not currently providing dental services.

The Island's health body says it is working to clarify the position of Smile Dental Care and restore local dental provision.

The northern practice's services were temporarily relocated at the end of last year to Hillside Dental in Douglas whilst work takes place at Ramsey and District Cottage Hospital.

In a statement on the lack of services today (3 April), Manx Care says it recognises this situation will be 'concerning and inconvenient for patients', and its apologised for the disruption and uncertainty caused. 

The healthcare provider adds: "Please be reassured that work is taking place to clarify the position and restore local dental provision."

Access to Urgent and Emergency Dental Care

Any patients of Smile Dental Care who require urgent or emergency dental treatment are being told they can access care by contacting 642785.

Urgent dental care includes conditions such as:

• severe dental pain
• facial or oral swelling
• uncontrolled bleeding
• dental trauma

Manx Care says, during weekends and bank holiday periods, an emergency dental rota operates and details are available via www.gov.im/dentists, with updates also shared through Manx Care social media channels.

It's asking patients not to attend dental services without prior contact, as urgent and emergency dental care is delivered across a number of locations and access is arranged following assessment.

Manx Care says it will continue to provide updates as further information becomes available.

Smile Dental Care has been approached for comment.