General Dental Council

We are the organisation which regulates dental professionals in the United Kingdom.  All dentists, dental nurses, dental technicians, dental hygienists, dental therapists, clinical dental technicians and orthodontic therapists must be registered with us to work in the UK.

We are delivering a modernisation programme to extend our powers and to make us a more efficient and effective regulator. These reforms are strengthening our role in protecting patients and promoting high standards of dentistry.

The Council

The Council has 29 members.

Ten* are members of the public, originally appointed by the Queen, but this role was delegated to the NHS Appointments Commission in April 2005. 
19* are members of the profession (15 dentists and four dental care professionals) elected to the Council by other registered members of the profession.

* Following two resignations, there are currently nine members of the public and 18 members of the profession on Council. These vacancies will stand until the Restructured Council takes office on 1 October 2009.

You will find a range of information about us by exploring the links in the right hand menu.