We undertook an inspection on 14 June 2013. We found the provider was not meeting one of the 'Essential Standards of Quality and Safety'. The inspection identified a concern regarding assessing and monitoring the quality of service provision. We found that there were not robust procedures in place to regular assess and monitor the quality of service provision. The customer feedback and infection control audit required updating.

The provider was required to provide a report that stated what action they were going to take to achieve compliance with the essential standard. The provider submitted an action plan on 20 July 2013. The purpose of the inspection was to check that the necessary

improvements had been made to ensure compliance with the essential standards.

We found that the procedures for quality assurance systems and auditing now met with the essential requirements of the Health Technical Memorandum (HTM) 01-05. The HTM is the guidance that all dentists must follow in order to ensure that their practice is safe and minimises the risks of cross infection.

We found that procedures had been improved to assess and monitor the quality of service provision. People using the service were now offered an opportunity to provide their feedback on the service provided.

During our inspection we spoke with four patients regarding their experience of the service and their involvement in treatment planning. We were told that medical histories were taken regularly and that advice was given following a course of treatment.

We viewed four treatment plans. We were told that treatments were explained and that the costs were made clear. People said that appointments could be made easily and that staff were very professional.

People we spoke with confirmed that information about their treatment and the available options had been given to them. Comments included “x makes the options clear. I have had a range of treatments and ask a lot of questions. X provided the information to allow me to make an informed decision” and “ I am advised of fees before agreeing treatment. Aftercare advice is provided. I have recommended them to other people”.

We found that there was a safeguarding policy in place. The policy provided the procedures to follow to raise any concerns about the possible abuse of children and vulnerable adults

We saw that the practice was clean and well organised and that staff had a good understanding of infection control procedures. We found that there were arrangements in place to ensure that equipment was kept clean and ready for use.

We found that there were not robust procedures in place to regular assess and monitor the quality of service provision. The customer feedback and infection control audit required updating.