In this inspection report no name appears for the registered manager. This is because no individual is currently registered with the Care Quality Commission. The provider is currently looking to address this situation.

We found that since our previous inspection the practice had adopted an adult safeguarding policy. Staff confirmed they had received copies of both the adult and children’s procedures. We saw that safeguarding matters were now discussed at staff meetings. The provider told us that formal training had been arranged for February 2014.

We found that cleaning processes and checklists had been introduced to ensure there was effective cleaning of the surgery and the practice in general. New chairs that could be easily cleaned had been provided in the surgeries and new clinical waste bins that could be operated by a foot pedal had been purchased. The provider showed us records that confirmed they monitored the water temperature across the surgery, to help minimise the risk of legionella infections.

The provider told us that no new staff had been employed since our last inspection. We found existing staff files had been updated and now included proof of identity. All staff involved in providing direct care had been subject to checks by the Disclosure and Barring Service.

We found evidence that practice meetings had taken place and that clinical and practice issues were discussed at these meetings. People’s attention was now being drawn to a suggestion box in the waiting area and the practice was acting on some of the suggestions made. There was a process to review clinical notes and where issues were identified then processes to improve the service were being considered.

People told us they could make informed choices about their dental treatment. One person told us, “I’ve had x-rays and they have gone through them with me and explained things that won’t show up on an x-ray.” Another person said, "They do explain and ask you about things; but I’m very lucky as I’ve not had anything wrong, really.”

People we spoke with were complimentary about the care and treatment they received. Comments included, "It’s a good practice and very friendly" and “I love it. It’s the only dentist I don’t mind coming to." Another person told us, "It is far superior to other dentists I have been too."

The provider did not have any specific policy regarding vulnerable adults. Staff had not received appropriate training and were unsure about their responsibilities in relation to safeguarding issues.

People told us the practice was generally clean. One person said, "It’s a bit old and tatty, but it is generally clean." We found that appropriate processes and system were not in place to maintain the cleanliness of the practice.

A robust recruitment system was not in place and not all clinical staff had been subject to appropriate Disclosure and Barring Service checks as recommended by the General Dental Council (GMC).

The practice did not have in place effect systems for monitoring the quality the service.