We spoke with three patients visiting the surgery on the day of our visit. Each told us they had been given sufficient information to make decisions about their treatment. One said, “They explained everything to me”. Another told us how they had been “very impressed” with the way staff treated them.

We observed two consultations with the dentists. Patients were given appropriate information about how to maintain their dental health. We looked at five treatment plans and saw the proposed treatment was clearly recorded. Patients we spoke with told us their treatment was effective and in line with what they had expected.

There were effective systems in place to reduce the risk and spread of infection. Patients were cared for in a clean, hygienic environment. Best practice guidance on the sterilisation of instruments was followed and staff were appropriately trained.

Staff were supported to provide high standards of care. Records showed that dental nurses had received appraisals during the past year. Patients praised the friendliness of the staff. One said, “They alleviated my fear”.

We looked at the results of patients’ satisfaction surveys. These showed patients were satisfied with the treatment they received. One comment said, “Just continue with your excellent standards”. Most aspects of the service were audited to ensure they were working effectively and the practice used a clinical governance framework to assess the quality of its service.