A Dumfries dentist is the latest to announce plans to de-register.
Blue Door confirmed yesterday that three of its five dentists have moved to private plan status.
The practice will retain two NHS dentists but their lists are currently full and they will be unable to take on new patients.
The latest development follows similar announcements from dental practices in Thornhill, Gretna and Castle Douglas.
In a statement from Blue Door said: “Due to the current dentistry situation in Dumfries and the wider community, three of our five dentists have decided to move to a monthly dental plan for adults over 18 years old from March 1, 2023.
“We will retain two NHS dentists at the practice whose lists are currently full. We also have three therapists who will support the NHS associates.
“All under 18s will stay with the practice and continue to be offered full care even if their dentist has moved to the monthly plan.
“All patients over 18-years-old whose dentist is going to the monthly plan will receive a letter in the next week or so giving them information about the plan.
“This has been an extremely difficult decision and we feel that this is the best solution so we can support our patients.”
Blue Door patient Graham Bartlett expressed disappointment at the move.
Mr Bartlett, 60, from Dumfries, became aware of the change when he contacted the surgery about an appointment.
He said: “I was told if I went for my appointment, any further work I’d need would have to be paid for privately.
“There’s absolutely no way I can afford to do that and I’m sure so many others will be in a similar situation.”
The announcement is the latest blow to dental services in the region after Thornhill practice notified 3,800 adult patients they will no longer be provided with NHS services from December 24.
Earlier this year Gretna Dental Practice confirmed it would cease to offer NHS treatment to 2,400
adults. And the Gardenhill Dental Clinic in Castle Douglas is closing early in the new year, leaving 4,400 more without access to an NHS dentist.
A health board spokesman said: “At this point, there are no dental practices within the region currently accepting NHS dental
registrations.”
