BUPA Dental Care has confirmed that Brampton Dental Practice has been put up for sale.

The news comes weeks after the healthcare provider announced that 85 of its UK dental practices were due to be closed, sold, or merged.

Bupa had put this decision down to 'the national shortage of dentists and increased costs caused by inflation'.

A spokesperson said: "We have taken the very difficult decision to seek alternative owners for this practice due to the shortage of dentists to deliver NHS care. We are optimistic that a local provider can be found to continue access to dental services in the local community.

"We want to reassure patients that this practice is currently open as usual.

"Changes are due to take place later in the year, and we are writing to all patients to explain what it means for them. 

"This decision will allow the NHS contract to transfer to new owners, so that access to NHS dental services can continue for patients."

General manager for Bupa Dental Care, Mark Allen has previously said: "As a leading dental provider in the UK, our priority must be to enable patients to receive the care they need.

"For the majority of affected practices, this decision will allow commissioners to procure local providers for the NHS contract, tailoring services and investment to the needs of the local community, thereby providing a better opportunity for patients to continue access to NHS dental services.

"We fully understand the impact today’s decision has on our patients and our people within these practices.

"This decision has not been taken lightly and closure is a last resort.

"Despite our continued efforts, the dental industry is facing a number of significant and systemic challenges that are placing additional pressure on providing patient care, in particular recruiting dentists to deliver NHS dental care."