This was St. Thomas Dental Centre’s first inspection since registering with the Care Quality Commission. During our inspection, we checked and were assured that people using the dental practice had access to examinations in private. We asked people how they were involved in their treatment planning and whether they were invited to give feedback about their experiences. We checked how the practice handled any concerns or complaints. We saw the complaints process was open and transparent and dedicated to resolving issues to the satisfaction of the person raising the issue.

We met and spoke with staff and checked records. To protect people using the dental services staff working at the practice were trained to recognise signs of patient abuse and knew how to report concerns to the relevant authorities. We toured the premises and were satisfied people received safe and effective treatment in a clean environment.

Following the visit we contacted, with their permission, some people who had attended the practice the week of our visit. We sent an email questionnaire to five people and received three responses. Those people expressed high levels of satisfaction with the practice. Comments included. ”My treatment options are always discussed with me.” ”I cannot fault this surgery.” “The staff are so nice.”