The provider understood how to proceed if a person was not able to give valid informed consent. This involved a discussion with a carer or advocate and acting in the best interests of the person. Records were now made as evidence of the process being followed.
People said they could usually get appointments to suit them, including for urgent treatment. There were arrangements for people to get help when the practice was closed. The dentist and dental nurse talked to people about their general health and made sure the practice had all the relevant information before treating someone. The staff we met knew how to act in the event of a medical emergency and the practice had the required emergency equipment.
The practice and equipment was clean, tidy and well organised. Decontamination of dental instruments and equipment was carried out safely and effectively and in accordance with technical requirements. There were some minor areas needing attention in relation to cleanliness and infection control, which we made the provider aware of.
Staff were recruited safely and had relevant external checks prior to taking up their position. There was a complaints system available and most people we met felt they would be listened to and not discriminated against if they made a complaint. Two people we met said they were not sure if any negative comments would be well received or criticism accepted.
The dentists took time to explain the risks and benefits of any treatment. People said they made up their own mind about how to progress and could withdraw consent at any time. There was, however, some lack of knowledge about how to gain valid consent from children and how to protect people who were unable to provide their own informed consent.