New 10-surgery dental centre aims to expand access to NHS care amid recruitment challenges on the Isle of Wight.
RYDE, Isle of Wight — June 13, 2025 – Damira Dental Studios has confirmed it will open a new 10-surgery dental practice in Ryde this November, significantly expanding NHS dental services on the Isle of Wight.
The new clinic, currently under construction in the former Barclays Bank building on Ryde High Street, will replace the existing practice on Melville Street, which currently operates with just four fully equipped surgeries. Once completed, the new facility will be able to cater for up to 10,000 NHS patients, according to company estimates.
The practice will be staffed by a dedicated team that includes four dentists, two hygienists, and two patient care coordinators. Renovations are ongoing, with the goal of completing the transformation in time for a November 2025 opening.
Responding to the Island’s NHS Dental Shortage
Speaking to Island Echo, Dr. Anushika Brogan, CEO and Founder of Damira Dental Studios, addressed the ongoing difficulties in NHS dental care provision on the Island, citing staff recruitment as one of the most pressing issues.
“I think there is a lack of understanding around NHS dentistry on the Island,” Dr. Brogan said. “But one of the biggest issues is recruitment.”
She added that although dentistry remains a rewarding career, attracting skilled professionals can be difficult. However, Damira Dental has implemented a robust recruitment strategy for both its Island and mainland locations.
“As a dentist myself, I understand these challenges,” Dr. Brogan said. “We try to complete the remedial tasks quickly so we can focus on seeing more patients.”
Meeting Demand for NHS Dental Services
Once open, the new Ryde location will more than double the number of surgeries previously available, helping to ease long-standing concerns about access to NHS dental care across the Isle of Wight.
Damira Dental Studios already operates a second practice in East Cowes and offers a full range of dental treatments to both NHS and private patients.
