The concerns of Pembrokeshire parents who cannot get orthodontic treatment for their children have been taken to the Welsh health minister by Preseli Pembrokeshire AM Paul Davies.

Several parents have been in touch with Mr Davies to say that waiting lists are too long for orthodontists.

"I have received several letters and e-mails from parents who are concerned about shortfalls in orthodontic treatment," he told Health Minister Edwina Hart in the Senedd.

"I have also heard from several constituents who have either had to wait years or pay hundreds of pounds for private orthodontic treatment for their children.

"It is unacceptable for parents to be forced to pay for their children's treatment."

The orthodontic problem in West Wales was exacerbated by the retirement of a consultant at Withybush Hospital and many children now have to travel to Carmarthen for treatment.

Figures obtained under the Freedom of Information Act by the Welsh Conservatives last year revealed there were 1,200 children waiting to see an orthodontist in the town.

And last autumn Carmarthen orthodontist Dr David Howells wrote to the Welsh Health Minister describing the situation as "dire" as he had a long waiting list but no NHS funding available until April this year.

"Orthodontics in West Wales is clearly in crisis," added Mr Davies. "The Welsh Assembly Government needs to address the situation as a matter of the utmost urgency."