The purpose of this inspection was to find out answers to five key questions. Is the service caring? Is the service responsive? Is the service safe? Is the service effective? Is the service well led?

Below is a summary of what we found. The summary is based on our observations during the inspection when we sought information about patient's experience and gained views from people who used the service, the staff who supported them and from looking at records.

We spoke with the provider who is one of two dental service providers, registered separately with the Care Quality Commission. We also spoke with the other provider, an associate dentist and a newly qualified dentist who was working their first year of practice (vocational training year). In addition we spoke with two qualified dental nurses, two trainee nurses and the two reception staff. We spoke with five patients and looked at the NHS Choices website.

Is it safe?

Patient records showed that every aspect of treatment was recorded. People told us they felt safe in the practice. Staff were trained in relevant subjects including dealing with medical emergencies. There was good management of the premises including systems to ensure regular maintenance checks were conducted.

Is it caring?

The practice was fully accessible for people with mobility difficulties and parents with pushchairs and support was available if needed. Patients spoke positively about their experiences and had no cause for concern.

Is it effective?

There were efficient systems in place for ensuring that the practice could deliver dental treatments. Staff training opportunities ensured they were up to date with current best practice and maintained their skills and knowledge for the safety and well-being of patients.

Is it responsive?

Patients told us they could get appointments easily and that the dentist always explained treatment options to them. The practice was open on weekdays and the out of hours arrangements for emergency treatment were available in the practice brochure.

Is it well managed?

There were systems in place to monitor the quality of service provided. The provider reflected on their practice and set actions for their further development.

We spoke with four people who attended the dental practice; they were all satisfied with their treatment and told us that the dentists always explained everything to them telling us: ‘it’s all excellent and my treatment is explained’.

One person was attending a routine appointment and was pleased that the dentist had been able to fix a crown that had fallen off at the same time. People told us that the reception staff were always very friendly, with one person telling us the dentist always remembered them and that they had no difficulty in making appointments. They felt that staff would listen if they had a complaint.