We interviewed four patients and asked for their opinions. Two were fairly new patients and the other two long standing. Two of them also brought children to the surgery for treatment. They all confirmed they were treated with respect and courtesy by the reception staff. None of them said they had difficulty making appointments and that the receptionists were accommodating when making them. One of them described the receptionists as polite and friendly. Another lady said that she had phoned up for an appointment for her daughter who had toothache at 2pm and was given an appointment the same day at 4pm.

They all said that they were happy with the dental care they received in the surgeries and that they were treated well. They all agreed that treatment was explained to them and they were given the opportunity to ask questions. When asked they told us they received preventive advice from the dentists and hygienist on how to look after their teeth and gums. The children all said they were happy to attend.

Patient's needs were assessed and care and treatment was planned and delivered in line with their individual care plan, however, we did not always find the support that met their needs and protected their rights. In addition there were not satisfactory arrangements in place to deal with foreseeable emergencies.

We saw that there were appropriate decontamination processes in place however the required audits had not been undertaken.