Our inspection of 26 June 2013 found that there were systems in place to reduce the risk and spread of infection, but there were gaps in these that may put patients at risk.

At this inspection we found that the provider had addressed all these gaps. This included the replacement of torn chairs and flooring, the fitting of a new boiler to ensure water temperatures were adequate, and improved processes for monitoring infection control within the service.

We spoke with four patients. They were positive about the care they received, and told us they had had their treatment explained to them. One patient told us the service was “really good” and “they always talk me through what they’re doing”. Another said their dentist was “straight to the point, no messing about.” A patient told us they were able to “discuss options”, and received a plan which included the costs. A patient told us that they had needed urgent treatment, and the service had responded quickly to this and “provided good care”.

Patient’s privacy and dignity was respected. Patients told us that the staff were friendly and approachable. The waiting area was separate from the reception desk, and treatment was discussed privately in the treatment rooms.

Patients we spoke with said the service always appeared clean and tidy. The service had procedures for cleaning and decontamination that followed national guidance. However, there were some areas of the service that required attention to reduce the risk of cross-contamination, and the necessary action had not been taken to manage the risk of Legionella.

The patients we spoke with were positive about the staff and the care provided. The staff were up to date with their professional training requirements.

The service had processes in place for managing the quality of the service by identifying and resolving problems, and making improvements.