WEST Fifers are continuing to struggle to find a dentist with NHS Fife confirming no practices are currently taking on new NHS patients.

One local resident, who didn't wish to be named, contacted the Press to express his frustration after he was told there were no dental spaces across the whole of Fife with just one having a waiting list.

A spokesperson for NHS Fife confirmed they were aware of issues across the Kingdom and Scotland.

"Patients in Fife, like those elsewhere in the country, are seeing challenges when seeking to register for NHS dental care at local practices," they said.

"NHS Fife’s Public Dental Service is in regular contact with independent dental practices across Fife to provide support and help to improve access wherever possible.

READ MORE: Figures show decline in Fife NHS dentist numbers

"Currently three independent practices are taking patients onto a waiting list – these are in Dunfermline, Lochgelly and Oakley. But this information can be subject to change very quickly.

"Emergency dental care is available to those who have been unable to register for NHS dental care at their local practice through NHS Fife Public Dental Service.

"This can be arranged through Fife’s dental advice line on 01592 226555, which is open on weekdays from 8:30am to 5pm, or via NHS 24 on 111 during evenings and weekends.

“For more information on the recent changes to NHS dentistry in Scotland, or for guidance on what to do if you need emergency dental treatment, visit the NHS Fife website. In addition, NHS Inform also has a range of useful information on looking after your oral health."