- Dentist
Bupa Dental Care Bishop Auckland
Assessment report published 23 December 2025
Contents
Judgements
Our view of the service
We carried out this announced, on-site inspection on 2 December 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.
Bupa Dental Care Bishop Auckland is part of BUPA Dental Care, a dental group provider. The practice is in Bishop Auckland in County Durham and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children.
There was step-free access to the practice and on-street parking was available in the local area.
The practice had 5 treatment rooms. At the time of our inspection, there was a total of 22 staff. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our inspection, including 3 dentists, 4 dental nurses, 1 dental therapist, 1 receptionist, the practice coordinator and the practice manager. One of the group’s Quality Improvement Leads and a practice manager from a sister practice were at the inspection supporting the team.
People's experience of this service
Two weeks before our inspection, we asked the practice to encourage patients to share their views of the service with us. We did not receive any direct patient feedback.
We reviewed recent patient feedback collected by the practice. Of the 108 patients who responded in November 2025, 93% reported positive experiences and noted waiting times of under 10 minutes. The practice received a score of 9.7 out of 10 for friendliness, empathy, and overall atmosphere.
In addition, 100% of patients who completed the Friends and Family test rated the practice as either 'good' or 'very good'.
Some of the comments included: “First-class service all around. I felt valued and well-informed throughout my visit”, “The care and attention you receive is exceptional”, “Friendly, helpful, and professional reception staff. The dentists, dental nurses, and hygienists are all skilled, take the time to explain treatments, and make you feel at ease”, “My appointment was carried out in a friendly, professional manner. Everything was explained, and aftercare instructions were clear. I felt safe and in good hands”, “Appointments are always on time, and treatments are carried out with professionalism and a friendly approach.”
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.