We undertook this follow up visit in response to concerns that we had identified during our previous inspection of the service in January 2014. Our visit was discussed and arranged with the provider in advance so that any disruption to people’s care and treatment were minimised.

At our previous inspection we had identified that the systems in place for decontaminating used instruments and processes for the recruitment of new staff were not robust. We judged these as having a minor impact on the people who used the service and we asked the provider to take action. Following the inspection, the provider sent us an action plan which set out how they would address the issues raised.

At this inspection we spoke with two members of staff including the practice manager and a dental nurse. We found that the provider had made progress in addressing the systems in place to ensure people were protected from the risk of infection.

The provider had taken action to minimise the risk of unsuitable staff. Although, the recruitment policy was in need of review to ensure it provided robust guidance for staff to follow.

This practice is located on the ground floor and was accessible to people who have restricted mobility. The premises consisted of a reception/waiting area and a treatment room. The toilet was not accessible for wheelchair users.

The dental team consisted of one dentist, practice manager, a dental nurse and receptionist. The dentist and the dental nurse were registered with the General Dental Council.

During this inspection we spoke with the dentist, practice manager, dental nurse and three people who used the service.

We found that people were informed of their treatment options and their consent for treatment was obtained. One person who used the service said, "I was in pain and the dentist discussed my treatment options.”

Dental records contained relevant information about people’s medical history, planned treatment and follow up appointments. One person told us, “Every time I visit the dentist they ask if there has been any change to my health.”

The decontamination procedures needed to be reviewed to ensure practices were more effective in reducing the risk of cross infection.

The staff recruitment practices were not entirely robust to ensure that staff were suitable to work at the practice.