IT'S all smiles for dentists and NHS patients alike after practices across the borough were given a slice of £365,000 to improve services.

The grant from the Government funded Dental Modernisation Fund has gone towards upgrading their practices for the benefit of NHS patients.

Health bosses said that Bury and Rochdale Health Authority did not experience the teething troubles of other health authorities in getting local dentists on board to take up the opportunity to improve their practices for the benefit of NHS patients.

Money has gone to refurbishment and redecoration of practices to the provision of new dental equipment and improving disabled access on the premises.

Mr Phil Emmott, director of operations and primary care at Bury and Rochdale Health Authority, said: "Most NHS dentists in Bury and Rochdale have taken up the opportunity their practices for the benefit of NHS patients. Although a large proportion of the funding has been allocated, a small amount remains available, however, this should be allocated in the near future."

He added: "Many patients will benefit from the improved facilities available and the refurbishment of practices that are taking place."