- Dentist
Smallthorne Family Dental Pratice
Assessment report published 3 July 2025
Contents
Judgements
Our view of the service
We carried out this announced on-site inspection on 25 June 2025.
We found the practice had met regulations.
Infection control procedures in place were effective.
The practice had effective systems to identify and manage risks.
Recruitment procedures reflected current legislation.
Systems to support a culture of continuous improvement and development required strengthening.
Patients’ care and treatment was provided in line with current guidance.
Patients were treated with dignity and respect and at the time of our inspection, could access care, support and treatment when required.
The practice is in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire and provides NHS and private 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 6 treatment rooms.At the time of our inspection, there was a total of 20 staff, of which there were 6 dentists, 8 dental nurses, 2 dental hygienists, 2 receptionists, a practice manager and a visiting implantologist. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our inspection.
People's experience of this service
Two weeks before our inspection, we asked the practice to encourage patients to share their views of the service with us. We received feedback from 6 patients. On the day of our inspection, we received feedback from a further 20 patients. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice.
Comments included, “My Dentist was very polite and explained everything he was going to do to my teeth”, “Managed to accommodate the whole family in a block booking within a short waiting time from initial phone call”, “Dentist very knowledgeable and helpful” and “Great service. Always willing to explain and advise on treatments.”
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 told us that 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.