The inspection took place on 22 January 2015 as part of our national programme of comprehensive inspections. This practice had not previously been inspected. This practice was registered in April 2014 and this was the first inspection undertaken since that date.

Basildon Dental Centre provides primary dental care mainly for NHS patients but dental treatment is available for a small number of private patients. The practice team includes three dentists, supported by a number of full and part-time dental nurses, a practice manager and two receptionists.

The practice shares the building with another dental practice, separately registered with the Care Quality Commission. This is an entirely separate entity but both practices do share the decontamination facilities. The reception desk is shared but it operated by staff from each practice. Clear signs are displayed and different uniforms worn by each practice.

Prior to our inspection we left some CQC comment cards for patients to complete about their experience of the practice. We reviewed the 48 that had been completed. Patients had made positive comments about the practice and were very satisfied with the care and treatment received from the dentists and the way they were treated by all of the staff working there. Patients we spoke with on the day of the inspection said that staff were kind and caring, explanations about care and treatment options were clearly described to them.

The practice had carried out a patient survey in May 2014. This reflected that patients thought the services provided were either good or very good and felt that the practice was clean and hygienic.

We found that the practice provided safe care and treatment that met patient’s needs. The premises, equipment and infection control procedures were effective and followed published guidance. Staff were kind and caring and the dentists and dental nurses provided effective treatment that met their needs.

We found that staff responded to patients needs and provided individualised care and clear explanations. The practice responded to the needs of patients and tailored their services accordingly. The practice was well-led with staff aware of their responsibilities and how their role linked to the vision and objectives of the practice. Staff working there felt supported and said that it was a nice place to work.