Our current view of the service
Updated
6 June 2025
We carried out this announced on-site inspection on 27 August 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.
The practice is in Bishop Auckland and provides private dental care and treatment for adults and children.
The practice had 3 treatment rooms. At the time of our inspection, there was a total of 9 staff, of which there was 1 dentist, 4 dental nurses, 2 dental hygienists, 1 receptionist and the practice manager. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our inspection, including the dentist, 2 dental nurses, 1 dental hygienists, 1 receptionist and the practice manager.
People's experience of the service
Updated
6 June 2025
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 4 patients. On the day of our inspection, we saw patient feedback from one additional patient. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice.
Comments included, “Very professional caring and respectful staff, from the dentist, hygienist, dental nurses and reception team…”, “…all the staff are friendly and very professional”. “… [The dentist] is solicitous of patient comfort preferences, and all staff are polite friendly. Communication is generally good and although costs have increased, it is clear the principal is committed to a level of service [they] consider necessary, and working extremely hard to ensure it is maintained.”
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. “Able to get prompt appointments when required…”, “…You are able to make new appointments before leaving which is sent to your email.”
Patients told us they were given clear information to help them make an informed choice about their treatment and any associated costs. “…The 1st visit includes facial and oral examination with X-ray, full discussion with treatment needed including price of treatment and dental plan…”, “Gives clear explanations, using a traffic light system, and costings…”
Patients said they were involved in decisions about their care. “I was taken through the treatment plan, continually checked upon asking if I was ok, talking through every step so I understood what was going on and I can say I felt relatively calm for myself sat in the dentist chair”. “… Every procedure is explained prior starting and throughout the treatment your comfort is a priority…”
Patients told us that 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.