- Dentist
Lowton Dental Centre
Report from 16 July 2024 assessment
Contents
Judgements
Our view of the service
We carried out this on-site announced assessment on 6 August 2024. We found the practice had not met all regulations. The practice had ineffective systems to manage risks. In particular, risks associated with fire, legionella and radiation. Although recruitment procedures reflected current legislation, improvements could be made to ensure these were consistently followed. Improvements could be made to leadership and oversight to ensure a culture of continuous improvement is embedded. The practice did not have effective systems to review and investigate incidents and accidents. However, infection control procedures followed published guidance. 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. The practice is in Lowton and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children. At the time of our assessment, the dental team included 1 orthodontist, 1 endodontist, 2 dentists, 1 foundation dentist, 1 foundation dental therapist, 1 dental hygienist, 1 orthodontic therapist, 5 qualified dental nurses, 1 trainee dental nurse, 1 receptionist and the practice manager. The practice had 6 treatment rooms. During the assessment we spoke with 2 dentists, 1 dental nurse, 1 trainee dental nurse and the practice manager. We identified regulations the provider was not complying with. Full details of the regulation the provider was not meeting are within the quality statement section of the report. We have asked the provider for an action plan in response to the concerns found at this assessment.
People's experience of this service
On the day of our visit, we received feedback from 7 patients. Their responses and additional patient feedback we reviewed provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice. 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. Patients commented positively about the standards of cleanliness.