When we inspected on 18 November 2013, we judged that the process for decontaminating (or cleaning and sterilising) dental equipment was not effective and that patients were at risk. We were concerned at the condition of decontamination room storage units and also that the provider’s decontamination process was not consistent with Department of Health guidance. We asked the provider to take action.

When we inspected again on 30 January 2014, we saw that the units in question had been replaced and also that the provider’s decontamination process was consistent with Department of Health guidance.

We were able to speak with patients during the inspection. They confirmed that their privacy and dignity were respected by the dentist. One patient we spoke with told us the dentist was “very nice, very respectful.”

A full dental examination was carried out on each patient and records were kept of findings and treatment plans. Patients confirmed they had been asked about their medical history. The dentist told us that any minor risks associated with treatment were discussed with the patient before treatment commenced. One patient commented that the dentist was “very good at explaining things.” Another patient we spoke with told us “I’ve always had good treatment here and a good service.”

Patient records were updated after each patient was seen by the dentist which meant these records were accurate and fit for purpose.

Patients were protected from the risk of abuse, because the provider had taken reasonable steps to identify the possibility of abuse and prevent abuse from happening.

Patients we spoke with told us that the premises were clean. However people were not being protected from the risk of infection because the appropriate guidance (Department of Health essential requirements specified by the Health Technical Memorandum 01-05) relating to the decontamination of dental equipment and instruments was not being followed.