A single inspector and a specialist dental advisor conducted the inspection and helped to answer our five questions; Is the service caring? Is the service responsive? Is the service safe? Is the service effective? Is the service well led?

The inspection findings are based on our observations during the inspection, from speaking with patients who use the service, speaking with the staff and from looking at records. We spoke with three patients after they had had their appointments.

We also received several written comments about the service at the practice. Comments included,

“Good service in a safe and hygienic environment, caring staff. “

“I have consistently been very happy with the excellent treatment I have had from the dentist over many years. He and his staff are always very welcoming and supportive. The administration of appointments is always very good.”

“Excellent dental care. Most satisfied with my care.”

Below is a summary of what we found.

Is the service safe?

For each patient risk factors were identified as part of their health assessment. There were also general risk assessments with measures to reduce risk so that the patients and the staff were kept safe. There was emergency equipment and medicines to make sure that patients were kept safe if there was a health emergency.

The general environment and the surgeries were clean and tidy. There were hand-washing facilities for staff and there were cleaning schedules and decontamination procedures to reduce the risk of infection.

Staff were well supported so that they could carry out their roles and responsibilities. Staff had a range of qualifications and training so that they had the right skills to provide a service and to keep patients safe.

The dentist and manager conducted regular audits to make sure that the service was safe.

Is the service effective?

Patients’ health and needs were assessed and each patient had a detailed treatment plan to improve their dental health. Patients were asked to give their consent to assessment and treatment and signed their treatment plans to show their consent. The three patients we spoke with said that they had given their consent to treatment.

The health assessments and dental examinations identified potential risks to patients’ health. Patients were given advice to improve their oral health and appropriate support and treatment.

The practice had staff with appropriate qualifications and training including dentists, dental nurses and receptionists. Staff updated their training so that they had the knowledge and skill to offer effective treatment and advice.

Is the service caring?

We saw that patients were treated with respect and dignity by the staff. Patients came to the reception and were received by staff who were courteous and helpful. Patients told us that communication was very good and the dentist listened to what they had to say. The dentist gave patients advice about how to prevent problems and manage dental conditions.

There was also written information for patients about prevention and some dental conditions. Patients were supported through advice and their treatment plans to manage their own dental health and wellbeing.

Is the service responsive?

The appointment system was straightforward so that patients could access the service easily. The surgery was open six days a week with some late night opening so that patients could make appointments to suit them.

The service was planned to take account of different needs in relation to age, gender, disability, culture and religion. For example the service was available to patients of all ages, different genders and cultural backgrounds. The surgeries had level access and there were wide doorways to give access to people who used wheelchairs. Translators were provided when needed.

Patients could give their views about the service through feedback forms and where shortfalls or concerns were raised these had been addressed. Patients knew how to make a complaint if they were unhappy. Action was taken in response to complaints.

Is the service well-led?

The service had a quality assurance system so that the quality of the service was continually audited and monitored. We saw records, which showed that all checks were taking place and the service provided was safe and of the right quality.

Staff we spoke with were clear about their roles and responsibilities. Support to staff from the organisation was good. For example there were regular meetings for the nurses and dentists and senior staff from the organisation visited to provide support.