Our current view of the service
Updated
15 December 2025
We carried out this announced on-site inspection on 29 April 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.
Smile For Life Dental Clinic Tilbury is in Tilbury and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children.
There was step-free access to the practice and car parking available in nearby streets.
The practice had 3 treatment rooms in use at the time of the inspection with 2 additional treatment rooms undergoing refurbishment. At the time of our inspection, there was a total of 8 staff, of which there was the principal dentist, 2 associate dentists, 3 dental nurses, 1 dental hygienist and a receptionist. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our inspection, including 2 dentists, 2 dental nurses and the receptionist.
People's experience of the service
Updated
15 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 2 patients. On the day of our inspection, we spoke with and saw patient feedback from a further 10 patients as well as feedback routinely collected by the practice. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice.
Comments included, “Excellent surgery, dentists are welcoming and explain everything. I was told my options and the whole experience was great.” And “very friendly.”
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.
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.