We undertook this inspection to ensure improvements to hygiene and infection control were made since our last inspection on 22 January 2014. At our last inspection we found risks related to the decontamination of dental instruments. We also checked that equipment was safe and effective due to concerns reported to us regarding x-ray machinery and other equipment. We spoke with the registered manager, two dental nurses, two dentists and a consultant who was working with the service during our inspection. We did not need to speak with patients during this inspection. We visited with a specialist adviser with expertise in dentistry to assist in checking that x-rays were undertaken safely and effectively.

During this inspection we found that changes had been made to the decontamination process for dental instruments to ensure the risk of cross-contamination between sterile and non-sterile instruments was minimised. New checking processes were in place to make sure that the premises were hygienic. Staff were aware of their roles in protecting patients and others from the risks of infection.

We found the service was compliant with regulations known as Ionising Regulations in relation to Medical Exposure Regulations 2000 or more commonly known as the IR(ME) Regulations 2000. X-ray equipment was safe to use and worked properly. Medical equipment was stored appropriately and was within their expiry dates.

Patients told us they were informed about their dental and oral health and provided with treatment options. A patient told us that during their consultation the dentist "chatted and went through what I had wrong in depth". Patients we spoke with were satisfied with the dental care they received from the practice. One patient said "My dentist is excellent."

Patients told us they found the practice was always clean. They said staff wore protective equipment and gloves when treating them. We saw staff wore appropriate protective equipment when decontaminating dental instruments. We saw daily cleaning check sheets for treatment rooms were completed by staff. However, we found the practice did not always follow appropriate hygiene and infection control guidance.

Staff undertook appropriate professional development training to meet the requirements of their governing body.