During our inspection we spoke with four members of staff, looked at care records for five patients and spoke with six patients. We observed cleaning and hygiene practices after treatment in two surgeries.

We saw that the patient’s views were taken into account in the way the service was provided and delivered. The six patients we talked with told us that everything was explained at each stage and they were given time to consider their options. For example one person told us “I had the choice of a crown fitting or a denture and I was given time to consider my choice.”

We saw that treatment records included details of patients’ medical histories. These were updated regularly and signed by the patients. Staff told us that the dentist or hygienist would verbally check the history at each treatment visit. The six patients we talked with said that they had been asked to update their medical history at each visit.

We saw that the premises were visibly clean and tidy. There was hand gel available for patients and staff. Staff we spoke with were knowledgeable about the decontamination and sterilisation processes they used. We observed that cleaning and hygiene practices after treatment in two surgeries was thorough.

We saw documentation which confirmed that all relevant staff employed by the service held current registrations with the General Dental Council (GDC). We also saw documents which confirmed that the service held checks with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) for all staff. Staff had received training on the protection of children and vulnerable adults.

Patients who used the service and their representatives were asked for their views about their care and treatment, through a suggestions box and satisfaction questionnaires. Comments in satisfaction questionnaires we sampled included “Staff are very helpful and make you feel at ease” and “Very good with my children, (the dentist) explained to them as well as myself.”