We visited Walkden Dental Practice on 15 October 2012.

We observed that all areas were clean and that posters promoting oral hygiene and offering information about the practice were displayed within the reception area. There was a variety of preventive advice and equipment offered.

We saw that policies and procedures were accessible to staff and emergency medical equipment was in place. Decontamination processes were seen to be followed and hygiene procedures were adhered to by staff, to minimise the risk of cross infection.

We looked at records, which were factual, up to date and relevant. Patients’ medical information, treatment plans and personal preferences were regularly reviewed and updated.

We spoke with six members of staff who were suitably qualified for their roles and had undertaken relevant training during their employment. We observed staff members interacting politely and with respect towards patients and noted that patients were given privacy and dignity.

We spoke with nine patients. One patient said that the practice “always tries to meet patients’ needs in a very efficient and caring manner.” Another patient said that staff were “very helpful and polite”, whilst another described the cleanliness as “above reproach.”

We observed that comments and complaints were taken seriously by the practice and used to inform changes and improvements to the service delivered.