How do we deal with dentists with a health problem?

The Council's health procedures allow us to deal with cases where a dental professionals health problems may put patients at risk. 

The Council has powers under the 1984 Dentists Act to take action when an allegation is made that a dentist's fitness to practise is impaired by reason of a physical or mental condition.

A registrant suffering from physical impairment which might jeopardise the wellbeing of patients should seek medical advice, and, if necessary, restrict the scope of his or her dental practice. A registrant who wilfully continues to practise when a physical impairment could affect the safety of patients may be regarded by the Council as misconduct.

For more information about our Fitness to Practise procedures, contact ProfessionalStandards@gdc-uk.org

Dentists seeking help with health problems

Many dentists seek help from the Dentists' Health Support Programme (formerly known as the Sick Dentist Scheme). The Dentists' Health Support Programme can be contacted on the following confidential number 01327 262 823.