We visited The Courtyard Clinic to look at the care and treatment provided to patients who used the service. We spoke with three patients, three members of staff (which included the principal dentist) and observed two treatment/consultation sessions. We also collected three responses to a patient questionnaire we left in the waiting area.

The patients we spoke with were very satisfied with the treatment they had received at this practice. They told us that they were asked to consent to their care and treatment in advance and told us they had been given treatment options by the dentist. Those who had more significant treatments had a treatment plan before any work had been carried out. We were told by one patient that they were “Asked for written consent for big work and verbal for regular visits.”

We heard how the dentist would refer patients to other dental professionals if specialist treatment was required.

Patients commented favourably on the cleanliness of the practice. Patients also told us they felt safe in the hands of the dentists and the staff who worked in the practice.

We saw that the practice had a complaints policy and that they listened to patient’s comments and feedback.