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Braces Stuck: 700 Patients Abandoned by Cornwall Orthodontist
19 Aug
Summary
- Orthodontist River Practice closed suddenly in April 2026.
- Over 700 patients left with incomplete treatment and fears.
- Staff concerns were raised months before the contract termination.
In April 2026, River Practice, an orthodontist in Cornwall, ceased operations abruptly. This closure left more than 700 patients, encompassing both NHS and private individuals, in a state of uncertainty regarding their ongoing dental care.
Patients like 16-year-old Jacob are now left with braces and no clear treatment path, raising concerns about potential harm to their oral health. Former employees had reportedly alerted NHS bodies to issues, including financial instability and patient welfare, as early as six months before the contract was terminated due to unmet standards.
The NHS stated that increased oversight was in place before the closure. Efforts are underway to transfer NHS patients to a new provider based on clinical urgency, aiming to mitigate the disruption caused by the practice's sudden shutdown.
