We visited The Howardian Dental Care on the 29th of November 2012. Patients who used the service told us that they found staff helpful and knowledgeable. They told us they were able to make appointments when they needed, including emergency appointments and that they were able to make these appointments at a time that suited them.

The dentists ensured patients were given information about any treatment needed and the options they had. One patient who used the service told us “All the options are discussed and I am happy that I am given enough information to choose”.

We saw evidence that the service sought patients consent before any treatment was carried out. This was recorded on patients records. We saw evidence of where consent had been obtained on another’s behalf and how this was recorded.

We looked at the infection control procedures and the policies in place. Staff had a good understanding of the procedures to follow and the importance of this. The practice was extremely clean and hygienic and the staff were following the correct procedures.

We looked at staff records and quality assurance systems including comments and complaints and saw there was a procedure in place for both. The practice sought the views of a small number of patients who used the service. This information was not gathered to enough of an extent to carry out any analysis or to lead action planning.

Staff were well supported and had opportunities to complete training and development.