Dental Surgery

Updated 25 February 2025

We carried out this announced on-site inspection on 17 December 2025.

We found the practice had not met all regulations.

The practice’s systems to identify, manage and maintain oversight of risks were not always working effectively. These included risks related to fire safety and lone working.

Systems, processes, policies and procedures to support the carrying on of the regulated activities did not always support the provider to maintain sufficient oversight.

Although recruitment procedures reflected current legislation, the provider was not consistently following these.

However, 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.

Staff had the skills, knowledge and experience to carry out their roles.

Infection prevention and control processes wereinline with national guidance.

The practice is in Sunderland and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children. The provider also has a domiciliary dental service where dental treatment was provided to people in their care home or private residence.

The practice had 1 treatment room. At the time of our inspection, there was a total of 2 staff, of which there were 1 dentist and 1 dental nurse. We gathered feedback from both staff during our inspection.

The provider was not complying with regulation 17 Good governance. 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.

Updated 25 February 2025

On the day of our inspection, we received feedback from 4 patients. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice. Comments included, “…friendly, efficient and accommodating…”

“Highly impressed with the treatment I received, [nurse] is welcoming and customer care was excellent.” “…The practice conveys a relaxing atmosphere, and the team are very approachable and knowledgeable.” Patients commented positively about the standards of cleanliness. “I always find the practice to be hygienic.” 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, “…the [Dentist] is always clear and concise in explaining any problems that may need doing...” and “…kept informed every step of the way regarding treatment…” Patients said 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.