One first day that we visited the computer system at the practice was not working so many of the dentists were not able to see patients as they did not have access to important information about patient’s medical and dental history. When we visited on the second day of the inspection, the computer system was still not working fully but the dentists were treating some patients who needed to been seen. During our visits we spoke with eight patients. Most patients we spoke with were satisfied with their care. We heard comments such as; “All of the staff are lovely”; “The reception staff are lovely” and “I have every confidence in my dentist.”

Some patients we spoke with were not completely happy with their care and treatment. We saw that appropriate action was taken where it was required and we discussed potential ways of addressing the issues raised with the manager.

We saw that staff had completed relevant training and that they made sure that they kept up to date with current dental practice. This included training about safeguarding vulnerable adults and children. The staff we spoke with were aware of how to refer their concerns to the local authority for further investigation.

There was a system in place to monitor the quality of care that included a wide range of policies, procedures and checks. The system ensured that standards were maintained and action was taken at an early stage to resolve any identified issues.