Patients we spoke with told us they were very satisfied with the care and treatment received. They told us the dentists always gave them good information and explained what they were doing. They told us:-

“It’s a brilliant service, they always explain everything fully”,

“Excellent, very friendly and professional”.

We checked six people's records and found evidence of completed records in respect of dental examinations, assessments, treatment planning and advice.

We found that health assessments were undertaken and reviewed regularly. Treatment plans were discussed and given to patients in written form. These included findings, options, risks and benefits. Staff were trained in emergency procedures. Emergency equipment was checked and accessible. There were sufficient numbers of suitably experienced and qualified staff to ensure patients were cared for safely.

We found the practice was compliant with the essential quality requirements of Health Technical Memorandum 01-05: Decontamination in primary care dental practices (HTM01-05). The HTM 01-05 is designed to assist all registered primary dental care services meet satisfactory levels of decontamination. Evidence was seen of the practice having undertaken regular audits which demonstrated compliance with HTM01-05 standards.

The quality of the service provided to people was monitored through audits including infection control and record keeping. However a patient satisfaction survey was not undertaken.

We spoke with patients when we visited who all commented they were very happy with the service. They said they saw the dentist regularly and felt the care they received was very good.

They confirmed that the dentist always explained what they were doing, what they had found during examination and what the treatment options were including risks and benefits. They told us the dentist made sure the patient understood treatment plans and care given. They said they were given plenty of information, written and verbal to help them understand their treatment and choices. Patients told us they were treated with respect by all staff. When asked what they thought of the service patients responded:

“Spot on”,

“Very good”,

“Very nice, very pleasant staff”.

People also commented the practice appeared clean and tidy. They told us staff were observed to wash their hands, always wore protective equipment such as face masks, eye goggles and disposable gloves. Patients told us they were always asked to wear protective eye wear and aprons.