Updated 3 April 2025
We carried out this announced on-site inspection on 3 September 2025.
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.
Whalebone Lane Dental Clinic is in Romford and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children. In addition, the practice holds an NHS contract to provide inhalational and intravenous sedation for adults and children.
There was step-free access to the practice with the sedation clinic located on the ground floor and other treatment rooms situated on the first floor which was accessed by stairs or a lift. Car parking spaces were available at the practice.
The practice had 8 treatment rooms. At the time of our inspection, there was a total of 28 staff, of which there were 11 associate dentists, 2 sedationists, 6 dental nurses, 5 trainee dental nurses, 1 dental hygienist, 2 receptionists and the practice manager. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our inspection, including 1 dentist, 3 dental nurses, 3 trainee dental nurses, the dental hygienist, 1 receptionist and the practice manager. A director for the company also supported the inspection.