Archived: Smiles Better Orthodontics Limited

The practice told us they would take action to carry out the required checks. They sent us an action plan telling us what they would do.

We asked the practice to send us written evidence that the checks had been carried out. The documents we received, for example copies of appropriate Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance, showed us that appropriate action had been taken.

The practice had made significant progress to ensure staff were of good character and appropriately qualified for their roles. It was evident that appropriate recruitment and selection processes had been put in place.

We saw that patients' medical histories were taken into account and reviewed regularly and that an orthodontic check was completed regularly which allowed the treatment plan to be reviewed and amended as needed.

We found the practice to be clean and hygienic with effective systems in place to reduce the risk and spread of infection.

Whilst there was a recruitment and selection process in place there were some shortfalls in relation to gaining references and in seeking disclosure and barring checks. The lack of appropriate checks potentially placed patients using the service at risk of their needs being met by staff who may have been unfit to provide care and support.

The provider had quality assurance processes in place to ensure treatment and care provided to patients was appropriate and safe.