During our inspection on 22 May 2013, we found that people who used the service were not fully protected from the risk of harm. This was because the provider did not have written guidance or information readily available for staff concerning safeguarding vulnerable adults.

We also found that people could not be sure they were always cared for, or supported by, suitably qualified, skilled and experienced staff. This was because the provider did not have full employment records in place for all members of staff. We also found one member of staff had provided a Criminal Records Bureau certificate that was over two years old. This meant when the person started work at the dental practice the certificate was over 12 months old and therefore could not be relied on for accuracy. The provider had not carried out further checks or a risk assessment to ensure the person was suitable for employment.

On this inspection we found the provider had compiled detailed written guidance for the staff concerning safeguarding vulnerable adults. The provider had implemented a detailed recruitment procedure and stated all future staff would have up to date Disclosure and Barring Service checks and two references taken up prior to their employment at the practice.

We spoke with eight patients on the day of our inspection to hear about their experiences. With their permission we also observed four people who received dental treatment.

At the time of our inspection the dental team comprised the provider and another dentist, a part time hygienist, four dental nurses and a practice manager.

People said staff were polite, caring, reassured them and were competent. They told us they were contacted prior to and reminded of appointments. They said dental check-ups were thorough and they were given information about treatment options.

People told us emergency treatment was usually arranged within 24 hours of requesting an appointment and often on the same day.

There was no information or guidance readily available to staff working at the practice about protecting vulnerable adults from harm.

People told us they thought the premises were clean and hygienic. We saw the provider had measures in place that ensured people were effectively protected from the risk of infections.

Staff recruitment procedures had not always been sufficiently robust.

Staff had undertaken training that was appropriate to the work they performed and ensured their continued registration with the General Dental Council.

The provider had arrangements in place that ensured the quality of the service provided was monitored and working practices were checked to ensure procedures were followed properly.