Our current view of the service
Updated
11 August 2025
We carried out this announced on-site inspection on 26 March 2026.
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. However, these were not consistently followed.
Improvements were required to the oversight of staff mandatory training.
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.
Sandstone Dental Practice is in Heswall, Wirral and provides private dental care and treatment for adults and children.
There was step-free access to the practice and car parking spaces available near the practice.
The practice had 2 treatment rooms. At the time of our inspection, there was a total of 13 staff, of which there were 4 dentists, 2 dental hygienists, 4 dental nurses, 1 receptionist and 2 managers. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our inspection, including 2 dentists, 1 dental nurse, 1 receptionist and the 2 managers.
People's experience of the service
Updated
11 August 2025
Prior to our visit, we asked the practice to encourage patients to share their views of the service with us. We received feedback from 14 patients. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice.
Comments included,
“… Sandstone have been incredible, thorough, supportive and attention to detail and care here is exceptional.”
“It has been a long process correcting my teeth but communication from [dentist] was excellent at every step. He took time to complete the work and never appeared to be rushed and seemed quite a perfectionist. [Dental nurse] his assistant was excellent and made you feel comfortable while in the chair. Overall, a great experience from someone who had a fear of dentistry.”
“Friendly service. Excellent advice. Professional treatment.”
“Excellent Customer Service on the desk and from a dental perspective the quality is excellent.”
“…This is both an excellent practice but also a friendly, caring and compassionate one…”
“…To be honest every member of the team I encountered ensured I felt safe and supported. What could have been a very stressful ordeal turned into a positive experience thanks to their kindness and professionalism. If you are a nervous patient, this is the place to go!”
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. “Sandstone Dental is an exceptional dental practice offering the latest dental technology and up to date procedures to ensure best quality outcomes for patients like me. They take the time to understand their patient and treat them with care and respect. Their dental work is second to none. They are extremely flexible in accommodating appointment times and offer free parking as well. They offer a fair pricing scheme and help me maintain excellent dental health...”
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 level of care I received was simply outstanding. The experience was positive from the moment I pulled up; the practice is located in such a pretty sandstone building, really well kept and calming. I was greeted warmly at reception and immediately made to feel welcome. The efficiency of the practice started before I even arrived. I was able to complete all my medical forms online at home, which took a huge weight off my mind. Once there, I was provided with all the information I could possibly need, ensuring I felt fully prepared.”
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.