9 November 2012
During a routine inspection
People told us that they were happy with the service provided. They felt their dignity was maintained and their privacy protected. For example, people told us that staff dealt with any questions relating to payment or other personal issues in a discreet way, ensuring that private information was not overheard.
They said they were encouraged to ask questions and felt staff had the time to answer their questions.
People said they were provided with clear information about various dental processes and were given time to make decisions about any treatment they may have.
One person said that they were given full information about what options they had about dental treatment. Another person told us that the dentist explained about the treatment and as a consequence 'took my fear away.'
The six people who we asked confirmed that the dentist always explained about the risks of any treatment that were proposed. Without exception, they all said that they were well informed about treatments and said that they were given choices and time to make their decisions.
One person told us that they were very nervous when attending the dentist but felt the dentist was aware of this and was always kind and reassuring.
People told us that the dentist showed them a video about how the treatment was carried out, which made them feel they were provided with realistic expectations of the procedures they were having.
The people using the service told us that they had been actively involved in the assessment process to identify their individual dental needs.
They said that they were given detailed information about any risks or side effects they may experience if surgery was undertaken.
Comments received included; - 'All the staff are wonderful'; 'The dentist fully explains what the process involves'; 'Staff tell you things in a way you can understand'. 'My family and I have been patients here for many years, staff treat us well and we rate the practice very highly.'
People also told us that the clinic was clean comfortable and accommodating and that appointments were flexible to meet their needs.
People told us they felt safe and reassured whilst receiving treatment at the dental practice. Comments included: 'I have been a patient here for over 29 years and they have always treated me well'; 'All the staff treat me well, I used to be very nervous of dentists but I have no fear whatsoever now'; 'I don't need to come often but always feel happy with all the treatment provided'; 'We are consulted about any medical issues to make sure we are fit to have treatment'. 'Everybody here is wonderful.'