By Isle of Wight Observer
Isle of Wight residents are being urged to use NHS 111 to access urgent dental appointments, following a major expansion of emergency provision across Hampshire and the Island.
As part of a national programme to improve access to urgent dental care, several practices – including newly launched urgent dental hubs – are now offering appointments for patients in significant pain or needing emergency treatment.
Anyone requiring urgent dental care should use 111 on-line, or call 111, where they will be assessed and directed to the most appropriate practice for their needs.
James Roach, director of primary and local care at NHS Hampshire & Isle of Wight, said the expansion is already making a difference. “We have worked closely with dental providers to significantly increase the availability of urgent appointments. We are expanding access across a seven‑day period and have begun launching urgent dental hubs to support this.”
He added that access to routine NHS dental appointments is also improving, and the boost in urgent care will help strengthen local services further.
Urgent appointments are intended for patients experiencing severe pain, infections, swelling, broken or knocked‑out teeth, uncontrolled bleeding, or urgent repairs to fillings or crowns. Patients should use 111 to check symptoms and be directed to the right care.
