The Isle of Wight Council will take action on the Island's "grossly inadequate" NHS dental care provision.

Following a vote at Wednesday's Full Council meeting in Newport, the council says it will hold the Integrated Care Board (ICB) to account for its "responsibility" in "ensuring" NHS dental services are provided to an adequate standard.

Councillor Warren Drew raised "significant deficiencies" in NHS dental care provision at the meeting with a motion that described the services as a fundamental right for all citizens.

His motion stated: "It is evident that this situation is exacerbating health inequalities and contributing to the deterioration of oral health across our population, with vulnerable groups being disproportionately affected.

"This council believes no resident should be denied the basic healthcare they are entitled to under the NHS.

"The responsibility for ensuring adequate provision of NHS dental services lies with the Integrated Care Board (ICB).

"However, it is clear that the situation is not being addressed by the ICB with the level of urgency and resourcefulness that this disaster demands."

The representative for Ryde South East also noted in his submission that the Hampshire and Isle of Wight ICB had underspent by "over £12 million" last year.

"Areas such as Yorkshire and Humber have adopted flexible commissioning on a sessional basis to treat patients with urgent dental need - we need to explore similar creative approaches", the motion read.

The council voted to seek an urgent response from the ICB to address "deficiencies" and provide a "rapid and workable" plan "for improving access".

Also included in Cllr Drew's motion was a commitment to call on the government to review the current NHS dental contract and "funding mechanisms" to make sure they are fit for purpose and adequately support dental care provision.

The council will additionally consider the taking of legal action to guarantee NHS dental care is provided on a "meaningful" and "accessible basis for all residents.

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight ICB has been approached for comment.