- Dentist
Lincoln Smile Centre
Report from 3 December 2024 assessment
Contents
Judgements
Our view of the service
We carried out this announced on-site inspection on 21 May 2025.
We found the practice had met regulations.
Infection control procedures in place were effective.
The practice had effective systems to identify and manage risks.
Recruitment procedures reflected current legislation and there was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement.
Patients’ care and treatment was provided in line with current guidance.
Patients were treated with dignity and respect and at the time of our inspection, could access care, support and treatment when required.
The practice is in Lincoln and provides private dental care and treatment for adults and children.
The service was accessed via a flight of steps and was not accessible for people with reduced mobility or those with pushchairs. The practice had arrangements in place to refer patients to accessible services nearby.
The practice had 5 treatment rooms.At the time of our inspection, there was a total of 19 staff, of which there were 4 dentists, 11 dental nurses, 2 dental therapists and 2 dental hygienists. Two nurses had dual roles as receptionists and the practice manager was also a dental nurse. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our inspection, including 2 dentists, 3 dental nurses, 2 receptionists and the practice manager.
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 received feedback from 17 patients. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice.
Comments included, “This is an excellent practice. The staff are very professional, friendly and very approachable, the dental service is to a very high standard and they maintain very good communication with clients.” Also, “Excellent services and very friendly.”
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.
Patients told us they were given clear information to help them make an informed choice about their treatment and any associated costs. They were involved in decisions about their care.
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.