25 June 2014
During a routine inspection
Below is a summary of what we found. The summary is based on our observations during the inspection where we sought information about patients experience and gained views from patients who used the practice, the staff who supported them and from looking at records.
We spoke with the practice owner (dentist) dental nurses and receptionists, in addition to spending time with the practice manager. We also spoke with the other two providers (dentists) who use the practice and are registered individually with the Care Quality Commission.
Is the practice safe?
Patients told us they felt safe because they had confidence in their dentist and because the dentist was qualified. The practice had made child protection referrals in the past, trained staff and had policies and guidance for them to follow in regards to patient safety. There were quality assurance measures in place to ensure safe services were provided. We saw satisfactory arrangements for the management of infection control processes.
Is the practice effective?
The frequency of appointments was based on national guidance. Staff had knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and understood how this protected patients who were unable to give consent to treatment. Where people needed specialist treatment the provider referred them to another service. We saw in patient records how patients had been given oral health advice.
Is the practice caring?
Patients described staff as friendly and told us they were given treatment options. They said the dentist explained treatment to them and they were asked to consent. We observed good relationships between staff and patients.
Is the practice responsive?
The opening hours were displayed along with, the arrangements for out of hours and emergency appointments. The practice was able to support people of different nationalities and made arrangements for people with disabilities. Patients were consulted about the service provided and complaints were responded to appropriately.
Is the practice well led?
The practice aimed to provide a dental service of a consistently high quality and sought patients views in support of this. There were good monitoring arrangements, including risk assessments. The provider (dentist) was well liked and the practice manager was described by staff as supportive and we observed a cohesive staff team.