The Dental Practice

Updated 14 March 2025

We carried out this announced on-site inspection on Wednesday 18 June 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. We highlighted minor risks in relation to the oversight of Legionella and X-ray equipment checks and were assured these would be addressed.

Recruitment procedures reflected current legislation. The processes to obtain Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks should be reviewed.

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 Cleveleys, Lancashire and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children. The practice also provides NHS minor oral surgery that does not require hospital treatment for patients aged 10 and over in Lancashire. Postgraduate dental trainees working under consultants also provided oral surgery care.

There was step-free access to the practice and car parking spaces available, including dedicated parking for disabled people, near the practice.

The practice had 3 treatment rooms.At the time of our inspection, there was a total of 13 staff, of which there were 4 dentists, 1 sedationist/oral surgeon, 1 postgraduate oral surgery trainee, 1 hygiene therapist, 4 dental nurses (including 2 trainees), 1 receptionist and the practice manager. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our inspection, including 3 dentists, 2 dental nurses, 1 receptionist, the practice manager and the compliance company manager.

Updated 14 March 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 12 patients. These and additional patient feedback we reviewed provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice.

Comments included, “I had a warm welcome and was pleased with treatment”, “A very positive experience at the practice. Lovely, helpful staff”, “Very professional and friendly. Don't have to wait too long for an appointment”, “Quick efficient service. Friendly staff made me feel at ease”, “really calming and ensured I was in no pain. Really good staff”, and “As always a pleasant experience as an anxious patient. Always put at ease. Thank you”.

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.