The GDC has launched a new leaflet advising the public on how to report concerns about a dental professional’s fitness to practise.

The leaflet ‘How to report a dental professional to us’ explains: what patients should do if they are worried that a dental professional is unfit to work because of their skills, health or behaviour; how to report concerns to the GDC; and what will happen as a result.

Hew Mathewson, GDC President, said:

“It is part of your responsibility as a dental professional to deal properly and professionally with complaints. You shouldn’t be afraid of this process as it is part of an approach to patient care that protects patients while being fair to all those involved.

This leaflet explains to patients how the GDC can help them if they have concerns about a dental professional’s fitness to practise.”

The leaflet ‘How to report a dental professional to us’ is available to download from this website. Copies can also be requested from the GDC Communications Department on 020 7009 2784 or by email at communications@gdc-uk.org.

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For media enquiries, please contact Rachel Lea on 020 7009 2782 or rlea@gdc-uk.org.

Notes to editors:

1. More information on GDC Fitness to Practise procedures is available on this website.

2. The following groups must be registered with the GDC and adhere to GDC Standards Guidance: dentists, dental hygienists, dental therapists, clinical dental technicians and orthodontic therapists. Dental nurses and technicians must be registered by 30 July 2008.