- Dentist
Hillton Dentistry Gillingham
Assessment report published 20 March 2026
Contents
Judgements
Our view of the service
We carried out this announced on-site inspection on 2nd December 2025.
We found the practice had not met all 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 good leadership and a culture of continuous improvement, although some improvements were required.
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.
Areas of the practice had not been maintained sufficiently
The practice is in Gillingham, Kent and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children.
There was step-free access to the practice and car parking spaces available, including dedicated parking for disabled people, near the practice.
The practice had 7 treatment rooms. At the time of our inspection, there was a total of 17 staff, of which there were 4 dentists, 4 registered dental nurses, 3 trainee dental nurses, a dental therapist, a dental hygienist, 2 administrators and 2 practice managers. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our inspection, including 2 dentists, 2 dental nurses, the dental therapist, the dental hygienist and one of the practice managers.
The provider was not complying with Regulation 15 Premises and equipment and Regulation 17 Good governance. Full details of the regulations the provider was not meeting are within the inspection report.
We have asked the provider for an action plan in response to the concerns found at this inspection.
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 5 patients. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice.
We were told staff were helpful and offered informative and cheerful advice
One patient commented they had been referred for a suspected cancer, this quick referral had saved their life and they were forever grateful.
3 patients mentioned they had been able to get an appointment the same day when they needed to
Others commented on the professionalism and care from all staff at the practice
4 patients said they had their treatment explained to them in detailed
2 patients mentioned that they were made to feel comfortable during appointments.
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 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.