- Dentist
James Hehir Building
Assessment report published 31 March 2026
Contents
Judgements
Our view of the service
We carried out this announced on-site inspection on 5 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.
James Hehir Building Dental was established in 2023, is part of Suffolk Dental CIC and is located within the University of Suffolk Dental Hygiene and Therapy School. The practice is in Ipswich and provides NHS general dental care and treatment for adults and children.
There was step-free access to the practice via a lift and car parking spaces available, including dedicated parking for disabled people, in pay and display car parks near the practice.
The practice had 10 treatment rooms. At the time of our inspection, there was a total of 24 staff, of which there were 6 dentists, 10 dental nurses including 2 trainee dental nurses, 3 dental therapists, 3 receptionists, 1 administrator and an interim practice manager. The practice was receiving ongoing support from Community Dental Services CIC, with an acting managerial team including the Clinical Director, Associate Director, Chief Operating Officer and Associate Operations Director. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our inspection including 1 dentist, 2 dental nurses,1 dental therapist, the administrator, the interim practice manager and a supporting visiting Associate Operations Director, in addition to a number of students from the University undertaking observational training at the practice.
People's experience of this service
On the day of our inspection, we spoke with 5 patients and saw patient feedback from a further 8 patients. We also reviewed patient feedback collected routinely by the practice. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice.
Comments included, “Very happy” and “staff have been very kind.”
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.