A routine inspection took place in September 2013 which identified that people were not protected from the risk of infection because appropriate guidance had not been followed by the practice. These concerns were judged to have had a minor impact on people who used the service.

The provider was required to submit a plan detailing the action they were taking to ensure compliance with this standard and the date at which they would be compliant. The provider told us in their plan that they would be compliant with this standard by the 18 October 2013.

At this inspection we found that the provider had taken appropriate measures to achieve compliance with cleanliness and infection control.

During our visit we spoke with four people who use the service, a receptionist, two dental nurses, a dentist and the dental hygienist. People we spoke with told us they were satisfied with the information they received. One person told us the information was always clear.

We observed that care and treatment was planned and delivered in a way that was intended to ensure people’s safety and welfare. One patient told us; “They (staff) are always caring, polite and courteous.”

There were arrangements in place to deal with foreseeable emergencies and effective infection control systems were set up but checks on these were not always carried out. This increased the risk and spread of infection.

There were enough qualified, skilled and experienced staff to meet people's needs. A member of staff told us; “I feel like a valued member of staff.”

The provider had an effective system to regularly assess and monitor the quality of service that people receive. Patient feedback indicated consistent and high satisfaction. One comment made by a patient included; "I have been coming here for 30 plus years and have seen a steady improvement to the current high standards.”