- Dentist
S Leigh Dental Surgery
Report from 16 July 2024 assessment
Contents
Judgements
Our view of the service
We carried out this announced on-site assessment on 25 September 2024. We found the practice had met regulations. The practice had systems to manage risks and infection control procedures were in place. 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. Recruitment procedures reflected current legislation and there was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement. S Leigh Dental Surgery is in Darlington and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children. There was step-free access at the rear of the practice and car parking spaces were available near the practice. The practice had 6 treatment rooms, 2 of which have just been built and are not yet in use. During the assessment we spoke with 4 dentists, 2 dental nurses, and the practice manager.
People's experience of this service
Three 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 5 patients. On the day of our assessment, we saw patient feedback from a further 31 patients. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice. Comments included, "dentist was perfect as well as reception", "made me feel at ease as a nervous patient", “10/10 amazing experience” and "treatment was spot on". The staff were described as “professional”, “caring” and “very friendly”. Patients commented positively about the standards of cleanliness and the aesthetics of the practice. 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. Patients told us that 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.