Diss Dental Health Centre

We carried out this announced focused inspection on 13 September 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 always ask five key questions:

• Is it safe?
• Is it effective?
• Is it caring?
• Is it responsive?
• 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 and 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.
• Patients were treated with dignity and respect and staff took care to protect 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.
• Staff and patients were asked for feedback about the services provided.
• Complaints were dealt with positively and efficiently.

Background

Diss Dental Health Centre provides both NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children. In addition to general dentistry, the practice offers patients dental implants and sedation services.

The practice has made reasonable adjustments to support patients with additional needs. There is full access to the practice via a ramp for people who use wheelchairs and those with pushchairs. Car parking for people with limited mobility is available directly outside the premises.

The dental team includes an administrator, six dentists, one dental therapist, three hygienists, seven nurses, and two reception staff. The practice has eight treatment rooms,

During the inspection we spoke with the practice principal, two dentists, the administrator and four dental nurses. We looked at practice policies and procedures and other records about how the service is managed.

The practice is open Mondays to Thursdays from 8.30 am to 6 pm, and on Fridays from 8.30 am to 5 pm. Saturday appointments are also available.