The dentist verbally described procedures to patients and used visual images where appropriate. One patient told us that staff gave them adequate information about their treatment and costs and always explained procedures "clearly" to them. Patients were always treated in private and with a dental nurse present.

Staff told us that patients were given written copies of their treatment plans and one patient told us that they were "happy" with the quality of their care.

The environment was clean and tidy on the day of the inspection. Patients rated the cleanliness of the practice as "good" or "excellent" as part of the satisfaction survey. There was a decontamination area with clearly identified areas to ensure that clean and dirty instruments were kept separate.

The practice was staffed by a dentist, a dental nurse and a hygienist. Staff had undertaken training including basic life support, infection control and other courses as identified in their appraisals. The dentist was up to date with his continuing professional development that included attending conferences on radiography updates.

Patient satisfaction surveys were carried out and from the 13 responses received; all rated the quality of the service as "good" or "excellent". There was a clinical audit policy and staff carried out clinical audits. The last one was on record keeping in 2009.