Dentaliving

We carried out this announced focused inspection on 25 May 2022 under section 60 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 as part of our regulatory functions. We planned the inspection to check whether the registered practice was meeting the legal requirements in the Health and Social Care Act 2008 and associated regulations. The inspection was led by a Care Quality Commission, (CQC), inspector who was supported by a specialist dental adviser.

To get to the heart of patients’ experiences of care and treatment, we usually ask five key questions, however due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and to reduce time spent on site, only the following three questions were asked:

• Is it safe?

• Is it effective?

• Is it well-led?

These questions form the framework for the areas we look at during the inspection.

Our findings were:

• The dental clinic was visibly clean and well-maintained.
• The practice had infection control procedures which reflected published guidance.
• Staff knew how to deal with medical emergencies. Appropriate medicines and life-saving equipment were available.
• The practice had systems to help them manage risk to patients and staff.
• Safeguarding processes were in place and staff knew their responsibilities for safeguarding vulnerable adults and children.
• The practice had staff recruitment procedures which reflected current legislation.
• The clinical staff provided patients’ care and treatment in line with current guidelines.
• Staff took care to protect patients their privacy and personal information.
• Staff provided preventive care and supported patients to ensure better oral health.
• There was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement.
• Staff felt involved and supported and worked as a team.
• Patients were asked for feedback about the services provided.
• Complaints were dealt with positively and efficiently.
• The dental clinic had information governance arrangements.

Background

Dentaliving is in Redbridge, a North East London Borough. They provide NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children. They are also contracted by NHS England to carry out Tier 2 endodontic services delivered by accredited clinicians.

There is ramp access to the practice for people who use wheelchairs and those with pushchairs. It does not have a car park, however, there is enough permit free parking on surrounding streets. The practice has made practical adjustments to support patients with additional needs.

The dental team includes six dentists, four qualified dental nurses, a trainee dental nurse, a dental hygienist, and three receptionists. They are supported by a full-time practice manager and a self-employed compliance advisor. The practice has five treatment rooms.

During the inspection we spoke with three dentists, three dental nurses, one receptionist, the practice manager and the compliance advisor. We looked at practice policies and procedures and other records about how the service is managed.

The practice is open:

Monday - Thursday 9.00am to 5.30pm

Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm

Saturday 9.30am to 2.00pm.

Outside of these hours, arrangements are in place for patients requiring urgent care and treatment.