The closure of a dental practice in Newcastle Emlyn has meant that approximately 400 patients in Pembrokeshire will be without dental facilities until new service arrangements are implemented by the Local Health Board.
The closure of this practice adds to scarcity of dental practices in the northern areas of Pembrokeshire.
Commenting on the effects of the closure of Mr Hathaway's dental practice in Newcastle Emlyn, AM Paul Davies said:
"Developments following the closure of this practice must be carefully monitored in order to ensure that these services are replaced and not lost.
Dental services in the northern areas of Preseli Pembrokeshire are few and far between, meaning many residents do not have access to these vital facilities. It is clear that more needs to be done to protect the services we do have.
We need to focus attention on the Local Health Board and work closer with it to develop strategies for those who previously accessed regular dental care from this practice. I will continue to raise this issue at the Assembly and ensure that the needs of these patients are met."