S W Pipe Dental Surgery Knowle

Updated 18 November 2024

We carried out this announced on-site assessment on 17 March 2025.

We found the practice had met regulations.

Infection control procedures in place were effective.

The practice had effective systems to identify and manage risks.

Recruitment procedures reflected current legislation and there was effective leadership and a culture of continuous improvement.

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.

The practice is in Knowle, Solihull and provides NHS and private dental care and treatment for adults and children.

There was step-free access to the practice and car parking spaces available, including dedicated parking for disabled people, near the practice.

The practice had 1 treatment room. At the time of our assessment, there was a total of 6 staff, of which there was 1 dentist, 4 dental nurses, (3 who also worked on reception and 1 of these nurses who also worked on reception and completed administration duties) 1 receptionist and a cleaner. We gathered feedback from staff and spoke to a range of staff during our assessment, including 1 dentist, 1 dental nurse, 1 receptionist and the administrator.

Updated 18 November 2024

Two weeks before our on-site assessment, we asked the practice to encourage patients to share their views of the service with us.

We received feedback from 11 patients and on the day of assessment we received feedback from a further 4 patients. Patient feedback provided a positive view of the dental team and care provided by the practice.

Patients commented positively about the standards of cleanliness. We were told, “Practice is clean, tidy and overall well maintained”.

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 commented, “Expeditiously dealt with an emergency within 2 hours of telephoning the practice. Although he had a full list of patients that day, he nevertheless, made time to ensure I was seen and the problem dealt with successfully saving me having to make another appointment”, “The treatment I received today is typical of his professionalism and excellent care”, and “If I ever have a problem and require an emergency appointment he has always fitted me in”.

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 said, “All staff are very friendly and welcoming. Advice/treatment given is always made clear and communicated well” and “I have been with this dental practice for over 25 years and have always had a positive experience - whenever any dental work needs doing you are always given a plan with a clear breakdown of cost. Would highly recommend”.

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.