During an assessment under our new approach
We carried out this announced on-site inspection on 26 March 2026.
We found the practice had not met all regulations.
There was a lack of sufficient governance and oversight to identify and manage various risks, including risks associated with dental radiography, medical emergencies, Legionella and fire risk management.
Staff had the skills and experience to carry out their roles.
Recruitment procedures reflected current legislation.
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.
Whelby Dental is in Ongar and provides 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, in pay and display car parks near the practice.
The practice had 2 treatment rooms. At the time of our inspection, there was a total of 16 staff, of which there were 2 dentists, 1 oral surgeon, 1 endodontist, 4 dental nurses, 1 dental therapist, 1 dental hygienist, 4 receptionists, 1 administrator and the practice leader. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our inspection.
The service provides cosmetic treatments, some of which are not in scope of CQC regulation and are not covered in our inspection.
The provider was not complying with Regulation 17. Full details of the regulation 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.