Cranfield Dental Care

Updated 9 December 2025

We carried out this announced on-site inspection on 22 April 2026.

We found the practice had met regulations.

The practice had mostly 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.

Cranfield Dental Care is in Hitchen 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, at the practice.

The practice had 6 treatment rooms. At the time of our inspection, there was a total of 24 staff, of which there were 8 dentists, 7 dental nurses, 3 trainee dental nurses, 2 dental hygienists, 2 receptionists, a treatment coordinator and a practice manager who were both also registered dental nurses. A visiting sedationist attended the practice to provide patients with intravenous sedation. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our inspection, including 3 dentists, 2 dental nurses, 2 receptionists, the treatment coordinator and the practice manager.

Updated 9 December 2025

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 10 patients. On the day of our inspection, we also reviewed feedback from patients routinely collected by the practice. All patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice.

Patients commented positively about the standards of cleanliness.

One patient told us, “Dentist is brilliant and kind. They always listen. Nurses are on the ball and patient, they keep the place spotless. I could eat off the floor. I can get in contact with the practice via phone or email and always pick up. I have been coming here for years and proud to be at a NHS dentist who works hard to treat their customers well.”

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.

One patient told us, “Good communication for appointments. Friendly staff. Prompt appointments and good availability.”

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.

Comments included, “Very nice and friendly place everyone is super helpful and service is amazing.” And “I’ve been attending this clinic for several years and have had a range of treatments during that time. The standard of care has always been consistently excellent. The team is friendly, professional, and well-organised, and the dentist always takes the time to explain procedures clearly and put me at ease. I’ve always felt comfortable and well looked after, regardless of the treatment.”

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.