Patients’ privacy was respected. Patients were able to discuss treatment, medical history, fees and other matters behind closed doors in the treatment room.

Patients we spoke with were positive about the quality of care and treatment received. One patient remarked “what they tell you is what they give you.” A patient who had participated in the provider’s latest patient survey fed back that they had received “good care - from the receptionists to the orthodontists.”

Staff we spoke with demonstrated an understanding of safeguarding children and vulnerable adults. A dental nurse was able to describe possible types of abuse such as physical and emotional abuse whilst the practice manager was able to explain how they would report safeguarding concerns.

We looked at provider records and saw that an external NHS England infection control audit had taken place in August 2013. We looked at the audit recommendations and were able to confirm, for example, that the provider had removed fabric seat coverings in the waiting room and replaced them with vinyl, so as to prevent infection.

The provider’s electronic and paper patient records clearly indicated where a patient’s medical condition might impact on treatment as medical histories were updated at each visit, as necessary. This meant that the provider had accurate records to help identify and manage risks in relation to providing treatment.