An Isle of Wight dental care provider has revealed there will be a two-week gap in provision while the practice establishes itself to provide NHS dentistry in Freshwater.

Holly Day, of the family-run Denbigh House, said Freshwater patients would not be able to be seen at her Ryde-based practice in the meantime unless it was an emergency, contrary to a claim made by NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight yesterday.

Mrs Day said: "We will be open again in Freshwater in a couple of weeks following a refurbishment."

Responding to press questions yesterday, NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight said Denbigh House would immediately take over the mydentist practice on Avenue Road following its closure today (Thursday).

The integrated care board (ICB) added however it was still waiting for the takeover to be approved by health and social care watchdog, the Care Quality Commission.

If the wait for approval causes a delay, a spokesperson said patients would in the meantime be seen at Denbigh House, with "nobody" being "without treatment".

They added the "exact same services" would be offered by Denbigh House.

James Roach, director of primary care at NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, said yesterday: "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."

Edward Day of Denbigh House had said previously: "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."

Update: NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight have now corroborated Holly Day's statement that there will be a two week delay