Updated 10 June 2022
We carried out this announced focused inspection on 9 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 emergency medicines and most life-saving equipment were available. The practice confirmed missing or expired equipment including all clear face masks, portable suction and paediatric pads for the automated external defibrillator (AED) were ordered immediately after the inspection.
- The practice had systems to help them manage risk to patients and staff. The five yearly electrical fixed wire testing had been undertaken in 2016 and was overdue for review.
- 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.
- The appointment system took account of patients’ needs.
- 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.
- The dental clinic had information governance arrangements.
Background
The provider has two practices, and this report is about Bright Dental Care.
Bright Dental Care is in Epping, Essex and provides private dental care and treatment for adults and children.
There is a portable ramp to provide level access to the practice for people who use wheelchairs and those with pushchairs. Car parking spaces, including dedicated parking for disabled people, are available in public pay and display car parks near the practice. The practice is situated in a timber framed listed building and has made reasonable adjustments to support patients with additional needs.
The dental team includes two dentists, three dental nurses (including one trainee dental nurse), one dental hygienist, one dental nurse also provided support as the receptionist. A visiting Endodontist attends the practice. The practice has two treatment rooms.
During the inspection we spoke with one dentist, one dental nurse, one dental hygienist and the receptionist. We looked at practice policies and procedures and other records about how the service is managed.
The practice is open:
Monday to Thursday from 8.30am to 5.15pm.
Friday from 8.30am to 5pm.
The practice had taken steps to improve environmental sustainability. For example, where possible items were recycled, staff were instructed to turn the power off to equipment and lighting when not in use.
There were areas where the provider could make improvements. They should:
- Take action to ensure the availability of equipment in the practice to manage medical emergencies taking into account the guidelines issued by the Resuscitation Council (UK) and the General Dental Council.
- Take action to ensure the suitability of the premises and ensure all areas are fit for the purpose for which they are being used. In particular, ensure five yearly electrical fixed wire testing is undertaken.