Shaz & Associates Ltd

Updated 6 February 2025

We carried out this announced assessment on 7 April 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 assessment, could access care, support and treatment when required.

Shaz Associates Ltd, also known as Dental Works, is in Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire 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, near the practice.

The practice had 7 treatment rooms. At the time of our assessment, there was a total of 29 staff, of which there were 9 dentists, 10 dental nurses, 2 dental therapists, 2 dental hygienists, 1 dental technician, 6 receptionists, 1 treatment coordinator, 1 administrator and 2 practice managers. Five members of staff took on additional (dual) roles. We gathered feedback and spoke to a range of staff during our assessment, including 3 dentists, 1 dental nurse and the practice manager.

Updated 6 February 2025

Two weeks before our on-site assessment, we asked the practice to encourage patients to share their views of the service with us. We received feedback from 8 patients. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice.

Comments included, “Excellent care, professional, efficient and very competent staff. Seen in a timely manner and the overall service was the best I've ever experienced” and “Excellent service, friendly staff, doctors who explained very clearly every step. I strongly recommend.” Dentists are qualified as a doctor of dentistry, and therefore are often referred to as a doctor.

Patients commented positively about the standards of cleanliness. Comments included, “My experience has always been positive. I have found the dentists to be warm, compassionate and listened well. I found the quality of care to be excellent. I have been pleased with the cleanliness and high standards of the practice. Dr (clinician) in particular has been professional at each visit and I have found her to be very knowledgeable and reasonable.”

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. Comments included, “If I need an appointment, I can get one. The appointments are tailored to my needs. The dentists have a lot of knowledge and work together as a team for the best results for the patient. I have been with Dental Works for 20 years and won't go anywhere else.”

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.