Updated 7 June 2023
We conducted this announced comprehensive inspection on 1 June 2023 under section 60 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 as part of our regulatory functions.
We planned the inspection to check whether the registered practice was meeting the legal requirements in the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and associated regulations.
The inspection was led by a Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspector who was supported by a specialist dental advisor.
To get to the heart of patients’ experiences of care and treatment, we always ask the following 5 questions:
- Is it safe?
- Is it effective?
- Is it caring?
- Is it responsive to people’s needs?
- Is it well-led?
These questions form the framework for the areas we look at during the inspection.
Our findings were:
- The dental clinic appeared clean and well-maintained.
- The practice had infection control procedures which reflected published guidance.
- Staff knew how to deal with medical emergencies. Appropriate medicines and life-saving equipment were available.
- The practice had systems to manage risks for patients, staff, equipment and the premises.
- Safeguarding processes were in place and staff knew their responsibilities for safeguarding vulnerable adults and children.
- Recruitment procedures ensured only suitable staff were employed.
- Clinical staff provided patients’ care and treatment in line with current guidelines.
- Staff provided preventive care and supported patients to ensure better oral health.
- Patients were treated with dignity and respect, and a high level of care.
- There was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement.
- Auditing was used effectively by staff to drive improvement.
- Staff felt involved, supported and worked as a team.
- Staff and patients were asked for feedback about the services provided.
Background
Cobbins Brook Dental Practice is based in Waltham Abbey and provides both NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children. In addition to general dentistry, the practice offers dental implant treatments, endodontics and oral surgery. The practice is part of the Smile Clinic Group which has 15 locations in London and Eastern region.
The practice has made reasonable adjustments to support patients with access requirements including ramp access, ground floor surgeries and a fully enabled toilet.
The dental team includes 6 dentists, 2 foundation dentists, 7 dental nurses, a dental hygienist, a dental therapist, a practice manager and administrative staff. The practice has 5 treatment rooms.
During the inspection we spoke with 2 dentists, the practice manager, 2 nurses and the receptionist. We looked at practice policies, procedures and other records to assess how the service is managed.
The practice is open Mondays to Thursdays from 8am to 6pm and on Fridays from 8am to 5pm. Appointments with the hygienist are available on a Saturday between 10am and 3pm.
There were areas where the provider could make improvements. They should:
- Take action to ensure the availability of an interpreter service for patients who do not speak or understand English.