Maple Dental Clinic - Luton

Updated 23 May 2025

We carried out this announced on-site inspection with remote support from a specialist advisor on 29 October 2025.

We found the practice had met regulations.

The practice had effective systems to identify and manage most 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.

Maple Dental Clinic – Luton is in Luton, Bedfordshire and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children. In addition, the practice has an NHS contract to provide minor oral surgery procedures.

There was step-free access to the practice on the ground and first floor and car parking spaces available via a ramp for wheelchair users behind the practice.

The practice had 7 treatment rooms. At the time of our inspection, there was a total of 32 staff, of which there were 15 dentists which included the principal dentist, a specialist in oral surgery, 1 foundation dentist, 11 associate dentists and an implantologist, 10 dental nurses including 5 trainee dental nurses, 2 dental hygienists, 2 receptionists and 3 practice managers. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our inspection, including the principal dentist, 4 associate dentists, 2 dental nurses, 1 receptionist and the 3 practice managers.

The service provides cosmetic treatments, some of which are not in scope of CQC regulation and are not covered in our inspection.

Updated 23 May 2025

Two weeks before our inspection, we asked the practice to encourage patients to share their views of the service with us. We reviewed the feedback collected by the practice. On the day of our inspection, we saw patient feedback from a further 5 patients and spoke with 2 patients. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice. Comments included, “Staff are very professional and pleasant.” and “Such friendly staff always so helpful.” 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. They told us the practice was always accommodating. 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, “They explained every step,” and “The hygienist asked how my teeth were, I was able to discuss my concerns, everything was explained and after 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 had recently introduced a new patient communication system to obtain feedback from patients following their appointment. We were told all feedback was reviewed and where suggestions had been made, appropriate action would be taken. We were told they shared patient feedback with the team.