A PRUDHOE dental practice has passed an inspection by the national healthcare watchdog.

Prudhoe Dental Practice on Front Street was inspected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) on December 7.

The inspection was led by a CQC inspector supported by a specialist dental adviser.

A report published following the inspection looked at five areas of the service, considering how safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led it was.

The report found there was no action required in any of the areas, as the practice met the requirements in all five categories.

The premises and equipment were found to be clean and properly maintained.

And inspectors found that staff considered patients’ different needs and took patients’ views seriously.

During the visit, patients said that the treatment they received was explained well, with advice offered, and that the dentists listened to their needs

Based on feedback from 14 people, the report said: “Patients were positive about all aspects of the service the practice provided. They told us staff were supportive, courteous and caring.

“They said that they were given helpful, honest, concise explanations about dental treatment, and said their dentist listened to them.

“Patients commented that the staff made them feel at ease, especially when they were anxious about visiting the dentist.”

The report added that staff protected patients’ privacy and were aware of the importance of confidentiality.

Patients also said that staff treated them with dignity and respect.

Inspectors did, however, outline some areas for improvement.

They advised reviews of the availability of medicines and equipment, sharp instruments procedures, the systems for checking and monitoring electrical and gas safety and protocols for the use of rubber dam for root canal treatment.