Patients told us that treatment was explained to them by staff in the surgery in private, that they were given choices of treatment, were able to express their views and were involved in making decisions about their care and treatment. One patient told us that 'the dentist told me what to expect and kept me informed.'We spoke with staff and saw records that showed care and treatment was planned and delivered in line with their individual treatment plan. Patients were recalled at intervals based on their individual needs. One patient said "this is an outstanding practice with the finest work." All of the patients we spoke with said they would recommend the dentist.
Staff told us how they would recognise and deal with abuse. The provider had patient safety and child protection policies and procedures which included details of local safeguarding contacts.
The premises were clean and well maintained. One patient told us "the practice is very clean, especially the surgery, they are always changing their gloves." The dentist and staff told us how to monitor infection control as detailed in the Department of Health Technical Memorandum 01-05 (HTM 01-05). However we found that some of the guidance was not being followed and there was a risk of infection.
We saw that patients' personal records including medical records were stored securely and were kept up to date. Records were retained and stored in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998.