Smile Matters

Updated 16 October 2024

We carried out this onsite, announced assessment on Wednesday 20 November 2024. We found the practice had met regulations. Patients’ care and treatment was provided in line with current guidance, and infection control procedures were in place. The practice had systems to manage risks. Recruitment procedures reflected current legislation and there was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement. Patients were treated with dignity and respect and at the time of our assessment, could access care, support and treatment when required. Smile Matters is in Muswell Hill in the London Borough of Haringey and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children. The practice had 2 treatment rooms. During the assessment we spoke with an associate dentist, a dental nurse, the receptionist (who was also training to be the operations manager), the administration manager and the business director. In addition, we spoke with the practice manager and the principal dentist over the telephone, as they were not working on the day of our assessment.

Updated 16 October 2024

Two weeks before our onsite assessment, we asked the practice to encourage patients to share their views of the service with us. We received feedback from 28 patients. On the day of our assessment, we collected patient feedback from a further 6 patients. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice. Comments included, ‘Every appointment I have had at Smile Matters, I have felt well taken care of. The practitioners make me feel very secure and comfortable, always informing me of what they are doing.’ Another patient said, ‘I have been attending this practice for 11 years. All the staff are welcoming, friendly and professional. The dentists and hygienists have taken wonderful care of my teeth and gums over the years. It's an excellent dental practice.’ Patients commented positively about the standards of cleanliness. They felt able to book appointments within an acceptable timescale for their needs and said they had enough time during their appointment without feeling rushed. One patient said, ‘Excellent reception staff and good availability of last-minute appointments.’ Patients told us they were given clear information to help them make an informed choice about their treatment and any associated costs. They were involved in decisions about their care. One patient told us, ‘Good and consistent advice provided by both the hygienist and dentist and a number of options discussed and considered for future treatment.’ Patients told us that when they were prescribed medicines, sufficient information was given. They were supported to maintain their oral health and were provided with appropriate information and resources. 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.