We looked at six sets of records for people who used the service. Each set included comprehensive records of examinations and treatments. The records also included medical histories and evidence that these had been checked and updated regularly. The practice had produced a ‘patients’ charter’ which was displayed in the waiting area. This set out what people could expect from the practice in terms of dental care.

People we spoke with told us that they were very happy with the dental care they received from the practice. One person told us that the service was “…spot on.” Another person said that the dentist was “…absolutely lovely, he’s got the nicest manner.”

We observed a treatment consultation and noted that the dentist and nurse wore appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves and protective eyewear, as did the person receiving treatment. The practice had a separate decontamination area, for the cleaning and sterilisation of used dental instruments.

We noted that the dentist, hygienists and dental nurses were registered with the General Dental Council. The practice helped staff to undertake the number of hours of continuous professional development (CPD) required to maintain their registrations with the GDC. This showed us that the practice had arrangements in place to ensure that staff were competent to meet people’s dental care needs. A complaints policy was in place. The practice had taken steps to inform people about this policy.