Updated 14 October 2022
We carried out this announced focused inspection on 21 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.
- Staff provided preventive care and supported patients to ensure better oral health.
- Staff and patients were asked for feedback about the services provided.
- Complaints were dealt with positively and efficiently.
There were areas where the provider could make improvements. They should:
- Implement an effective recruitment procedure to ensure that appropriate checks are completed prior to new staff commencing employment at the practice.
- Improve the practice’s sharps procedures to ensure the practice is in compliance with the Health and Safety (Sharp Instruments in Healthcare) Regulations 2013.
Background
Burnham Market Dental Surgery provides private dental care and treatment for adults and children. In addition to general dentistry, the practice offers dental implants.
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, but no accessible toilet.
The dental team includes one dentist, one hygienist, and a dental nurse who is also the practice manager. The practice has three treatment rooms, only two of which are in use.
During the inspection we spoke with the practice manager/nurse, the dentist and the hygienist. We looked at practice policies and procedures and other records about how the service is managed.
The practice is open Mondays to Thursdays from 8am to 4.30pm.