- Dentist
Hest Bank Dental Centre
Assessment report published 8 April 2026
Contents
Judgements
Our view of the service
We carried out this announced on-site inspection on 3 March 2026.
We found the practice had met regulations.
The practice had effective systems to identify and manage risks, including infection prevention and control.
Staff had the skills, knowledge and experience to carry out their roles.
Recruitment procedures reflected current legislation and there was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement.
Staff provided care and treatment in line with current guidance. They treated patients with dignity and respect and ensured access to care, support, and treatment when required.
Hest Bank Dental Centre is part of Envisage Dental UK Limited, a dental group provider. The practice is in Hest Bank Lancaster, and provides mostly private treatment, with a small amount of NHS dental care and treatment for adults and children.
There was step-free access to the practice and car parking spaces available, including dedicated parking for disabled people, near the practice.
The practice had 8 treatment rooms. At the time of our inspection, there was a total of 34 staff, of which there were 9 dentists, 16 dental nurses, 1 of whom was a trainee dental nurse, 4 dental hygienists, 1 decontamination room technician, 2 receptionists and the practice manager. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our inspection, including 2 dentists, 2 dental nurses, 1 dental hygienist, 1 receptionist and the practice manager. An area compliance officer was also present on the inspection day to support the practice manager.
People's experience of this service
On the day of our inspection, we reviewed patient feedback from a number of sources, for example, on-line feedback, feedback direct to the practice following appointments and patient surveys. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice.
Patients commented positively about the standards of care and treatment at the practice.
Patients felt able to book appointments within an acceptable timescale for their needs and said they had enough time during their appointment without feeling rushed.
Patients told us they were given clear information to help them make an informed choice about their treatment and any associated costs. They were involved in decisions about their care.
Patients said when they were prescribed medicines, sufficient information was given.
Patients told us that they were supported to maintain their oral health and were provided with appropriate information and resources.
The practice shared patient feedback with the team. We were told this was reviewed and where suggestions had been made, appropriate action would be taken.