- Dentist
Northiam Dental Practice
Assessment report published 19 November 2025
Contents
Judgements
Our view of the service
We carried out this announced inspection on 16th May 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 Rye in Kent and provides NHS and 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, on the practice premises.
The practice had 4 treatment rooms. At the time of our inspection, there was a total of 22 staff, of which there were 7 dentists, 7 registered dental nurses, 2 trainee dental nurses, 4 dental hygienists and 2 receptionists. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our inspection, including 3 dentists, 2 dental nurses, and the receptionists.
The service provides cosmetic treatments, such as facial aesthetics these are not in scope of CQC regulation and are not covered in our inspection.
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 6 patients. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice.
Patients commented positively about the standards of cleanliness.
Patients also stated staff were gentle, kind and patient.
Others told us the practice and staff are welcoming and comfortable.
Patients said staff were particularly attentive if you are nervous about receiving treatment.
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 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.