When we inspected Old Harlow Dental Practice on 28 January 2014 we found that people were provided with information about their treatment and they were asked for their consent. One person told us, “I was given the options and had the choice of going for something much cheaper.” Another person told us, “[The dentist] told me about the risks to my sinuses and I was given alternative treatments to think about.”

People's needs were assessed and treatment was planned according to those needs. One person who was visiting the practice told us, “They ask me about my medical history every time I come here.” Another person who had received treatment on an urgent basis said, “[The dentist] asked me how it happened, examined me then suggested they could [treat it] to make it more comfortable until I needed to have it taken out. They never take teeth out unless they really have to.”

There were effective arrangements in place to deal with foreseeable emergencies including oxygen, emergency drugs and an automatic external defibrillator.

The transport, cleaning, sterilisation and storage of instruments was in accordance with the Department of Health (DH) guidance on decontamination.

People's perception of the practice was of a safe, clean and hygienic environment. One person told us, “It’s very clean and hygienic. They all wear masks and gloves and I always have a bib and glasses to put on.”

Staff were supported to deliver treatment safely and effectively because they received regular training and an annual appraisal. One staff member said, “It feels like we get a lot of training which is great because it keeps you fresh.”

The provider carried out a range of audits to assess and monitor the quality of service people received. These included an infection control audit, a clinical records audit and a routine cleaning audit.