On the day of our inspection there was one surgery in use and patients were seen by one of the two dentists at the practice. We spoke with two members of staff and one dentist. We did not speak directly with any patients during this inspection, however, patients views were obtained at our previous inspection last year.

Staff who were on duty were very welcoming and we saw that they were helpful and treated patients with respect.

We spoke to staff who told us that they knew what to do if they had a safeguarding concern and that they would report it to one of the dentists. We saw that some training in adult safeguarding had taken place. However, we noted that not all staff had completed this training, and no staff had undertaken safeguarding children training.

The practice looked clean and well organised. We saw that systems were in place that monitored infection control within the practice.

We looked at staff records and found that there were not adequate processes in place before staff commenced employment at the practice. However, we were told that staff and their work history and personal circumstances were well known to the practice at the time of their employment.

We saw an example of a complaint and noted that it had been dealt with appropriately. We saw examples of surveys and comments and noted that these were all positive. Some people had stated “I have no complaints”.

During our visit we spoke to a patient, and carried out more detailed phone interviews with four other patients. We were told that appointments were available at convenient times, and that staff provided sufficient information about the treatment and care on offer. Patients told us that staff were respectful towards them and behaved in a professional manner.

Patients told us they felt safe being treated at this practice, and none of those we spoke to had any complaints. Whilst patients did not seem to be aware of the formal complaints procedure, they said they would raise any concerns with either the dentist or the receptionist.

Patients were asked to comment on the cleanliness and comfort of the environment and all those we spoke to said the environment was clean. Patients we spoke to confirmed that staff washed their hands, wore protective clothing, and offered protective equipment to patients.