A NUMBER of families are struggling to access treatment as a shortage of NHS dentists sweeps the area.

A recent investigation by The Mail found that there were no dentists in Barrow currently accepting new patients, with a large majority having either closed their waiting lists or only able to offer treatment on a private basis.

Some surgeries across Furness who were taking on new patients could only see them after several weeks on the waiting list were common before seeing the dentist.

A total of nine NHS dentists were contacted across the area and asked if they were taking on new NHS patients.

In Barrow, Mint dental in Hartington Street, had been the only surgery accepting new registrations but today confirmed this was no longer the case.

Cavendish dental in Cavendish Street, and Oasis in Dalton Road had both closed their waiting lists because they had become too long, but the management team for Oasis said they were currently "in talks" with the NHS about current numbers, and hope to be able to advise patients soon about when their list will come open.

Ardent dental in Oxford Street said they were only accepting under 18s for NHS treatment and adults had to enrol on a private basis.

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A spokesperson for NHS England (Lancashire & South Cumbria) said: "NHS England (Lancashire) took on responsibility for the South Cumbria area on April 1 this year.

"Historically there have been some challenges around accessing dental services in the area which NHS England (Lancashire and South Cumbria) is keen to improve.

"We are looking to investment in South Cumbria area as a priority area and improve access for residents.

"One of the difficulties faced by the South Cumbria area is around recruiting new dentists and other dental staff.

"NHS England is working with the Local Dental Committee, Health Education England and the Office of the Chief Dental Officer to investigate solutions to this issue and is dedicated to improving access in the area."

Across Ulverston the situation was no different with the majority of practises offering private care only.

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While Fountain Street surgery had no available spaces, their waiting list was still open but came with a three month delay.

In Millom, only Oasis dental care was accepting new patients but their waiting list was the longest by far, with staff saying the waiting period was backed up until the new year.

NHS England advised anyone in need of emergency dental treatment for pain, bleeding, swelling or trauma should not wait and should call 01539716822 immediately.

The results:

*Ardent dental, also known as mydentist, Oxford Street Barrow: No NHS adults, only registering u18s.

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*Mr kanjoo's in Hartington Street, Barrow: Private- no NHS registrations, check up costs £27

*Cavendish dental in Cavendish Street, Barrow: Waiting list for NHS patients CLOSED

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*Mint dental in Hartington Street, Barrow: No longer accepting new NHS patients, but their waiting list is still open

*Oasis dental care in Dalton Road, Barrow: Waiting list under review.

They are offering a 'Basics package' for £30 for a check-up, including two X-rays.

*mydentist in Market Street, Dalton: Accepting new NHS patients, appointments available within a two- three weeks.

*Fountain Street dental in Ulverston: Prospective NHS patients can join the waiting list which is currently around three months

*Hornhill dental practice, Millom: Currently accepting U18s and adults with exemptions only

*Oasis dental care, St Georges Road, Millom: Accepting new NHS patients but next available appointments in early 2018.

*Avondale dental, Kents bank Road, Grange: Waiting list for NHS patients CLOSED, only accepting private patients.

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