A HUSBAND and wife team are opening a new dental clinic in the centre of Taunton at a time when it's becoming increasingly difficult to get to see an NHS dentist.

Akanksha Gupta and Justin Parakala will welcome their first patients to the private Taunton Dental and Implant Centre, at The Lodge, in Church Square, on Monday, October 16.

The couple qualified in their home country India 20 years ago and have been working in dentistry in this country since 2005, including in the Taunton area since 2009.

They will offer checks ups and general dental treatments at affordable prices, including payment plans.

And they will also offer cosmetic treatments such as teeth whitening and straightening and removable, clear aligners that will brighten up your smile.

They will also be offering advanced treatments like implants.

Akanksha said: "At the moment, people from the Taunton area are having to travel to Exeter to see a dentist and there are long waiting lists.

"There is a shortage of dental services in Taunton and the surrounding area, especially since Covid.

"Children have suffered the most. We hope to help by providing easily accessible, affordable dental services in the centre of town.

"And we offer free check ups for children up to the age of six whose parents are registered here."

An official opening event is being held on Saturday, October 21, when everybody is invited to attend and there will be big discounts for people signing up on the day.

They will also be offering a free event to see children in the near future.

Akanksha and Justin will be supported by a small team with potential to expand in the future.

As well as offering day time appointments, they will also see people later into the evening and on Saturdays by appointment, as well as covering out-of-hours emergencies.

"We've been working in dentistry for several years and we're trying to give something back," said Akanksha.

"Our prices are reasonable while still doing a fantastic job and we're also offering payment plans to make make it affordable.

"A number of people are already showing an interest ahead of our opening and people can book an appointment online on our website."

On Saturday, October 28, the clinic is offering free check ups for children aged up to 17-years-old as part of the opening.