When we inspected the service in May 2013 we found the three surgeries at the practice were in need of refurbishment. We also found that whilst the practice was awaiting refurbishment there were areas in each of the surgeries that needed to be cleaned. The provider was asked to send us a report saying what action they were going to take to achieve compliance. At this inspection we found that the service had completed an action plan and achieved compliance.

We found that practice had completed a range of refurbishments across the practice. For example the installation of new work surfaces and new flooring had been completed in all the three surgeries.

Staff understood the importance of infection prevention and control, including decontamination, and commented how much easier it was to maintain a clean and hygienic environment for patients. One staff member commented: “it is a lot better; it is much easier to keep everything clean". During the inspection we observed dental nurses cleaning and preparing the surgeries between patient appointments. We found that patients were cared for in a clean and hygienic environment.

At this inspection, the practice adviser also informed us that the practice had employed an additional dentist. This had enabled the practice to provide additional appointments to patients and reduce the waiting time for patients. On the day of the inspection we observed that people were not waiting very long before they were seen.

We spoke privately with five patients who were attending the practice for check ups or treatment. Patients told us that the dentist explained all the procedures and treatments to them and respected their decisions about their treatment and care.

We found that patients were very satisfied with the care, support and treatment they had received. Their comments included: “It’s a work of art; I didn’t even know the dentist had pulled my tooth out.” “It’s the best treatment I have had at a dentist and I have been to a few.” “Very pleased with the treatment.” “I didn’t feel any pain when my tooth was taken out.”

We found that patients had not received care and treatment in a clean environment. The practice was in the process of refurbishment. We found areas and equipment within the practice that required cleaning. The service was non compliant with this outcome area.

The service had a satisfactory recruitment and selection procedure in place to ensure that staff were appropriately employed. Staff were provided with relevant training to maintain and update their skills and knowledge.

The provider had an appropriate system in place for gathering, recording and evaluating information about the quality and safety of care the service provides. Patients who used the service were asked for their views about their care and treatment.