- Dentist
Alma Dental Practice
Report from 13 December 2024 assessment
Contents
Judgements
Our view of the service
We carried out this announced, on-site assessment on 27 May 2025.
We found the practice had met regulations.
Patients’ care and treatment was provided in line with current guidance, and infection control procedures were in place.
The practice had systems to manage risks.
Recruitment procedures reflected current legislation and there was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement.
Patients were treated with dignity and respect and at the time of our assessment, could access care, support and treatment when required.
Alma Dental Practice is in North shields and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children.
There were car parking spaces available near the practice, including dedicated parking for disabled people.
The practice had 5 treatment rooms. At the time of our assessment there were 19 members of staff employed, of which we spoke with 4 dentists, 5 dental nurses, and the practice manager.
People's experience of this service
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 19 patients. On the day of our assessment, we spoke with and saw patient feedback from a further 1 patient. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice.
Comments included:
“Quality dental work and advice. Friendly staff.”, “Great friendly staff couldn't be more helpful always at ease when visiting.”
“Absolutely excellent. Professional without being detached, compassionate without being condescending…”
“My care to date has been EXCELLENT. I cannot praise the entire team enough... Alma Dental is without doubt an outstanding example of dental care. I cannot recommend them enough. I am so grateful for their care ..."
Patients commented positively about the standards of cleanliness, which included, “Good facilities, clean waiting room and friendly staff” and “high standards of cleanliness and comfortable facilities”.
They told us they were able to book appointments within an acceptable timescale for their needs and that they had enough time during their appointment without feeling rushed. “They listen to my concerns and always respond in a timely manner.”
Patients said 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. They said, “options explained without pressure, everything how it should be” and “I was given very clear information regarding all the payment options.”
When they were prescribed medicines, patients felt that sufficient information was given.
Patients also felt 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.