When we previously inspected John B Woods Dental Practice on 17 December 2013, we found that the provider was not compliant with this essential standard because there was not an effective system of auditing in place. We inspected the practice again on 4 April 2014 and saw that necessary improvements had been made.

We found that out-of-date emergency medicines had been replaced and that a system had been implemented to ensure that medicines and oxygen were regularly checked.

A regime of audits had been introduced which the provider had used to make improvements in various aspects of the practice. We found that the provider had taken action to ensure people's medical histories were regularly updated, appropriate records were made about x-rays and that appropriate equipment was made available to help prevent healthcare associated infections.

When we inspected John B Woods Dental Practice on 16 December 2013 we found that people were provided with information about their treatment and they were asked for their consent. One person told us, “I get a treatment plan and I am asked to sign it. I get a chance to go away and think about it and give my consent when I come back.”

People's needs were assessed and treatment was planned and delivered in line with their individual treatment plan. People told us they were involved in their treatment planning and that they felt in control of the pace of their examination and treatment. One person told us, “I felt [the dentist] was taking their time to examine me thoroughly. [The dentist] asked me lots of questions and I got the chance to ask lots of questions as well.”

The provider operated an infection control and clinical waste policy. Hazardous and clinical waste was collected regularly. Instrument decontamination was in accordance with the Department of Health guidance on decontamination. The environment was clean and hygienic and the dental team used proper infection prevention techniques.

Staff received appropriate professional development that was relevant to their role. The provider and the rest of the dental team undertook continuing professional development (CPD) that ensured they maintained their professional registration. There was no formal appraisal system in place. However, the provider had just begun to use a system that enabled them to produce personal development plans for each member of the staff team.

The provider sought people's views about the practice by means of a survey.

Audit systems that were designed to help the provider to manage risk to people were not operated effectively. The emergency medicines were not effectively audited and had been allowed to expire.