Smile Orthodontics Norwich

We carried out this announced focused inspection on 27 July 2022 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 adviser.

To get to the heart of patients’ experiences of care and treatment, we usually ask five key questions, however due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and to reduce time spent on site, only the following three questions were asked:

• Is it safe?

• Is it effective?

• Is it well-led?

These questions form the framework for the areas we look at during the inspection.

Our findings were:

• The dental clinic was visibly 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 help them manage risk to patients and staff.
• Safeguarding processes were in place and staff knew their responsibilities for safeguarding vulnerable adults and children.
• The practice had staff recruitment procedures which reflected current legislation.
• The clinical staff provided patients’ care and treatment in line with current guidelines.
• Patients were treated with dignity and respect and staff took care to protect their privacy and personal information.
• Staff provided preventive care and supported patients to ensure better oral health.
• There was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement.
• Staff felt involved and supported and worked as a team.
• Staff and patients were asked for feedback about the services provided.
• Complaints were dealt with positively and efficiently.

Background

Smile Orthodontics Norwich provides both NHS and private orthodontic dental care and treatment for adults and children.

There is full access to the practice via a lift for people who use wheelchairs and those with pushchairs. Car parking spaces are available to the rear of the premises. The practice has made reasonable adjustments to support patients with additional needs.

The dental team includes two orthodontists, two orthodontic therapists, seven dental nurses and a practice manager. The practice has two treatment rooms, one with two dental chairs and the other with one dental chair.

During the inspection we spoke with the principal orthodontist, two dental nurses, and the practice manager. We looked at practice policies and procedures and other records about how the service is managed.

The practice is open Mondays to Fridays from 9am to 5pm.