The takeover of Freshwater dentistry by a new provider "remains on track" despite the NHS still waiting on approval from a health and care watchdog.

Multi award-winning and family-run Denbigh House is scheduled to provide Freshwater with NHS dentistry services following the closure of Avenue Road's mydentist tomorrow (Thursday).

In a statement today, James Roach, director of primary care at NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, said: "We are continuing to work with Denbigh House and mydentist to ensure a smooth transition of services for patients.

"This remains on track with final issues being resolved. An updated message to patients will follow shortly."

NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight said the Ryde-based Denbigh House will take over the Freshwater practice with immediate effect, with patients receiving services from the same staff in the current Avenue Road building.

The integrated care board is however still waiting on approval from the Care Quality Commission (CQC), a government body that regulates and inspects health and social care providers in England.

If approval is delayed, NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight said patients will be cared for at Ryde's Denbigh House Dental Clinic until a CQC response is received.

Denbigh House was revealed as the new provider at the beginning of this month after a petition calling for the existing practice to be saved gathered over 2,000 signatures.

Edward Day, owner of Denbigh House, has previously said: "My wife and I are extremely proud to be in a position to continue to provide dental care for the people of Freshwater.

"The way the community has come together to support the practice is phenomenal and is testament to the wonderful and caring team at the practice.

"We are extremely excited to be able to support this team moving forward.

"I hope this will reassure people that the practice will remain open and remain NHS.

"We have had a lot of support from NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight and local community representatives and many more and we look forward to continue providing NHS dental care to local patients."