We observed patients being greeted by name and treated politely. Staff were friendly and approachable. We spoke with two patients during our visit and both were happy with the services they received making comments such as 'they always check my medical history' and 'they always explain things'. One patient we spoke with told us that their dentist was very caring and 'couldn't do enough for me'. One person had commented that they always seemed to see a different dentist. We saw that patient's treatment was based on a full assessment of their mouth and took into account their medical history. This showed that care and treatment was planned and delivered in a way that was intended to ensure people's safety and welfare.
There were not effective systems in place to reduce the risk and spread of infection. We saw an audit dated 9 June 2012 describing that decontamination procedures were 85% effective. The provider was unable to show us how this had been improved or monitored at three monthly intervals as required by the Code of Practice.
We were shown that the staff received regular appraisals and that personal development plans had been discussed although not recorded in detail.
We were shown that patient's paper records were stored in a locked metal filing cabinet behind the reception desk. Records were kept securely and could be located promptly when needed.