During this inspection we checked to see whether improvements to the service required at our last inspection in February 2013 had been made. We spoke with staff, reviewed records relating to the management of the service and observed hygiene and infection control processes. We did not need to speak with patients during this inspection.

Staff were knowledgeable about their responsibilities relating to hygiene and infection control. We saw the decontamination room displayed guidance to assist staff in sterilising equipment appropriately. There was a policy on hygiene and infection control and this was updated yearly.

Records related to the management of the service were easily accessible and fit for purpose. Staff records were monitored to ensure appropriate professional development and internal training was up to date.

Patients told us that the staff were helpful and friendly and that it was easy to get an appointment which nearly always ran to time. They also told us that the treatment was well explained and they were shown a written treatment plan.

We saw evidence that the Legionella risk assessment expired in November 2012 and that this had not been repeated annually as recommended in line with HTM 01-05 Decontamination in dental practices guidance.

We found that patient notes were written contemporaneously and all records were stored securely with staff having a good understanding of confidentiality.

Records were kept securely but could not be located promptly when needed. Staff and management files were kept in a locked room. However the area was cluttered and records were not able to be found easily.

The dentist told us that he followed national clinical guidelines and undertook full oral health risk assessments to formulate treatment plans of which we found evidence in the patient records.