Nantwich Smile Design

Updated 1 July 2024

We carried out this announced on-site assessment on 29 October 2024. We found the practice had not met all regulations. Improvements were needed to the leadership and oversight to ensure a culture of continuous improvement is embedded. Although recruitment procedures reflected current legislation, improvements were needed to ensure these were consistently followed. Improvements were needed to the infection control procedures to ensure they were reflective of the practice protocols. The practice had ineffective systems to manage risks. In particular, risks associated with fire, and legionella. However, patients were treated with dignity and respect and at the time of our assessment, could access care, support and treatment when required. Patients’ care and treatment was provided in line with current guidance. The practice is in Nantwich and provides private dental care and treatment for adults and children. There was portable ramp access to the practice and car parking spaces were available near the practice. The practice had 3 treatment rooms. During the assessment we spoke with 1 dentist, 2 qualified dental nurses (one of which was the practice manager) and 1 trainee dental nurse. We identified regulations the provider was not complying with. Full details of the regulation the provider was not meeting are within the body of the report. We have asked the provider for an action plan in response to the concerns found at this assessment.

Updated 1 July 2024

Prior to our visit, we asked the practice to encourage patients to share their views of the service with us. We received feedback from 20 patients. Their responses provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice. Comments included, “friendly welcome”, “very professional” and “kind, patient and efficient service”. Patients commented positively about the standards of cleanliness. Patients felt able to book appointments within an acceptable timescale for their needs and said they had enough time during their appointment without feeling rushed. 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. Patients told us that when they were prescribed medicines, sufficient information was given. 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. While the people we spoke to expressed that they were generally happy with their care, our assessment found there were regulations that were not met.