24 July 2014
During a routine inspection
Below is a summary of what we found. The summary is based on our observations during the inspection when we sought information about people's experience and gained views from patients, the staff who supported them and from looking at records.
Is the practice safe?
There was enough staff to meet the needs of patients. Checks were made to ensure that anyone appointed to work in the practice were suitable.
There were medicines and equipment available for use in an emergency. These were checked regularly to ensure they were safe to use. Radiographs (x-rays) were graded when they were taken and only repeated when they were unsatisfactory. This meant that patients had the least amount of exposure to radiation.
Is the practice effective?
There were suitable arrangements in place to ensure that patients were cared for by staff who were supported by the provider and practice manager. Staff maintained the requirements for continuing professional development as required by the General Dental Council.
Is the practice caring?
Care and treatment was planned and delivered according to an assessment of the patient's needs. Patients told us they felt the practice was caring and that this was demonstrated throughout their treatment.
Is the practice responsive?
Before any treatment was provided patients were asked to give consent. When verbal consent was obtained the dentist recorded this in the patient's records. If they gave written consent it was scanned into their record. If people were unable to give consent, this was obtained from a relative or carer.
A patient told us they felt the out of hours arrangements were good and another patient said they had been able to get an emergency appointment shortly after they telephoned the practice.
Is the practice well led?
The practice manager was newly appointed but was qualified and had extensive experience of practice management. They carried out staff appraisals with the provider and arranged suitable training.