The Dental Abode

Updated 18 August 2025

We carried out this announced on-site inspection on 28 August 2025.

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.

The Dental Abode is in Chelmsford, Essex and provides NHS and private general and orthodontic dental care and treatment for adults and children.

The practice was situated on the first floor so was not accessible to patients who were wheelchair users. Patients with mobility issues were signposted to local practices which were accessible. Car parking spaces including dedicated parking for disabled people, were available near the practice.

The practice had 2 treatment rooms and a consultation room. At the time of our inspection, there was a total of 12 staff, of which there were 1 specialist orthodontist, 2 associate dentists, 3 dental nurses, 2 trainee dental nurses, 2 orthodontic therapists, 1 dental hygienist, and 1 receptionist. A company director for the practice who was an orthodontic specialist and a compliance advisor also attended to support the inspection. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our inspection, including the practice owner, the orthodontic specialist, 1 associate dentist, 1 orthodontic therapist, 2 dental nurses, the receptionist and the compliance advisor.

Updated 18 August 2025

Two weeks before our inspection, we asked the practice to encourage patients to share their views of the service with us. We also collected feedback from patients on the day of the inspection. We received feedback from 34 patients. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice.

Patients commented positively about the standards of cleanliness.

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 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.