FEARS over the provision of NHS dental services have been raised following news of the retirement of a Menai Bridge dentist.

Patients have been told that Henri Maerivoet's Bridge Street dental practice is set to close.

They have been informed, and there is also a note in the surgery window from Mr Maerivoet saying it is with "deep regret" that he is to retire for "health reasons."

It says "During the past two years I have made every effort to find a suitable candidate to assist/replace me or a buyer who would guarantee continued NHS dental treatment without success...If nothing changes the practice will close by June 30, 2019."

He thanked patients for their "loyalty and appreciation," saying it had been a "pleasure working in the NHS for the past 22 years."

Patient Paul Howard, of Menai Bridge, said: "I and my partner Cheryl, and many other patients who rely on NHS dental treatment from the Bridge Street dental surgery are appalled to learn of the closure.

"The NHS has failed to support Mr in finding a successor. A lot of people now have nowhere to go on the island for NHS dental treatment.

"Many people won't be able to afford private dental care and anyone without a car will be stuck.

"If the practice closes as planned we are faced with the almost impossible task of finding an NHS dentist on the island to take us on."

Mr Howard contacted Assembly Member Rhun ap Iorwerth who said: “This is a matter that has arisen time and time again, patients tell me they have difficulties accessing NHS dental services.

"I have asked BCUHB to explain what their strategy is to deal with the strains on their system. It is clear that we have a shortage of dentists.

"After successfully campaigning for the establishment of a medical course at Bangor University, we should consider creating the capacity for dental training too.”

Anglesey's MP Albert Owen said: “It is vital we don’t lose more of our health and public services like dentistry. I am taking this up with the health board and hope the NHS can fill the gap and provide this essential service.”

A spokesperson for BCUHB said:

Bridge Street Dental Practice in Menai Bridge has given the Health Board notice that it will stop providing NHS dental services from June 30, 2019.

"Patients can find details for NHS practices in North Wales at website www.wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/861/directory/dentists/.

“Patients who require urgent treatment when the practice has closed, or before they have registered with an alternative should contact NHS Direct Wales on 0845 46 47 or https://www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk/.”