THOUSANDS more patients can look forward to free dental care after NHS bosses revealed plans to open a new NHS practice.

More than 7,500 places will be made available when the surgery opens its doors in Hedge End in mid August.

Health bosses are keeping the name and location of the practice under wraps as they finalise contract details.

But those interested in signing up have been told to call a special helpline to register their interest before the opening date is revealed.

Anyone wanting to book an appointment should call the helpline on 0845 050 8345 or 023 8082 8151.

People’s details will be passed on to the dental practice and an appointment for an initial examination arranged within the next couple of months.