Together Dental Norwich (Blenheim Road)

We conducted this announced comprehensive inspection on 18 July 2023 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 advisor.

To get to the heart of patients’ experiences of care and treatment, we always ask the following 5 questions:

• Is it safe?
• Is it effective?
• Is it caring?
• Is it responsive to people’s needs?
• Is it well-led?

These questions form the framework for the areas we look at during the inspection.

Our findings were:

• The dental clinic appeared clean and well-maintained.
• The practice had infection control procedures which reflected published guidance.
• Staff knew how to deal with medical emergencies. Appropriate medicines and life-saving equipment were available.
• The practice had systems to manage risks for patients, staff, equipment and the premises.
• Safeguarding processes were in place and staff knew their responsibilities for safeguarding vulnerable adults and children.
• Clinical staff provided patients’ care and treatment in line with current guidelines.
• Staff provided preventive care and supported patients to ensure better oral health.
• There was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement..
• Staff felt involved, supported and worked as a team.
• Staff and patients were asked for feedback about the services provided.

Background

Together Dental Norwich (Blenheim Road) is part of Together Dental Care, a group dental provider. The practice provides both NHS and private dental care for adults and children. In addition to general dentistry, the practice offers dental implants.

The practice has made reasonable adjustments to support patients with mobility requirements including level access, ground floor surgeries and a fully accessible toilet.

The dental team includes 6 dentists, 6 dental nurses, a dental hygienist, a practice manager and 2 receptionists. The practice has 3 treatment rooms.

During the inspection we spoke with 2 dentists, the practice manager, 2 compliance officers, 2 nurses and reception staff. We looked at practice policies, procedures and other records to assess how the service is managed.

The practice is open on Mondays from 8am to 8pm; on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8am to 6pm; on Fridays from 8am to 5pm, and on Saturdays from 8.15am to 3pm.