26 June 2013
During a routine inspection
We spoke with the principal dentist, the practice manager, one dental nurse, one hygienist and four patients who used the service. We consulted records held in the practice.
People told us that they were fully involved in the planning of their treatment. The dentist discussed different options available with people and enabled them to make informed decisions about their care. One patient told us, "I am totally involved in any decision about my treatment". The dentist reviewed and updated the care plans at the beginning of each visit. Another patient told us, "I have been using this practice for years; they take good care of my teeth". Treatment was delivered appropriately in line with patients' care plans.
We saw that the service maintained appropriate standards of cleanliness and hygiene throughout the premises. Staff told us, "We follow a strict decontamination process several times in the day". One person who used the service told us, "The practice is very clean and welcoming".
The practice had a clear policy and procedures in place regarding safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. The staff knew what to do should they suspect abuse was taking place.
Audits were carried out to identify how the service could improve. We found that the service had an effective incident reporting system and a complaint policy with clear procedures.