The first new dental practice to be established in the Western Isles in Scotland in more than 30 years has opened its doors in the Isle of Lewis town of Stornoway.

The Castleview Practice has opened under the direction of owner, dentist Dr Sridhar Kalvakuntla.

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It will offer NHS treatment to patients, alongside private treatments provided by two dentists, a dental therapist, a dental hygienist, six dental nurses and two receptionists.

Dr Kalvakuntla comes from his previous role working as a dentist with NHS Western Isles Dental Centre in Stornoway since 2016 and has worked for health trusts in England as well as both NHS Dumfries and NHS Grampian in Scotland.

Dr Kalvakuntla said: 'Opening Castleview is a big responsibility but it is also exciting. At Castleview our main priority is to keep our patients pain free. We understand the majority of patients can be anxious about dental treatment, and we put all efforts in to providing a stress-free environment in our new practice.

'We will be encouraging preventative care for our patients through regular attendance (every six months), and aim to attend emergencies within 24 hours with daily emergency appointments available. We also have a good referral system in place should patients need specialist care.'

Colin Robertson, NHS Western Isles Chief Dental Officer, said: 'Opening Castleview Dental Practice is a huge act of confidence on Sridhar's part.

'His new practice adds choice, and will reduce waiting times in Lewis. His new premises are exceptional and show the level of commitment he has made to this project.'