Provider of illegal dentistry prosecuted by GDC

On 21 January 2020, Keith Sandland of Cosmetic Dentures, Edinburgh, was found guilty of unlawfully practising dentistry as an unregistered dental technician. Sandland was fined £1000 by Edinburgh Sheriff Court.

Following a complaint received in Juy 2018 from a member of the public, our criminal enforcement team launched an investigation.

Jenny Stewart, Head of In-House Appeals and Criminal Enforcement at the GDC said: “Our primary purpose at the GDC is to protect the public from harm. Regardless of the qualifications an individual may have gained in the past, unless they are currently registered with the GDC, fully insured to practise and up to date with professional development requirements, they pose a real risk to the public. Where our efforts are ignored, as in the case of Mr Sandland, we will, where appropriate, prosecute in the criminal courts.”

Under the Dentists Act of 1984 it is a criminal offence for a person who is not a registered dentist or a registered dental care professional to practise dentistry. Where we have sufficient evidence that individuals who aren't registered with us are committing offences associated with practising dentistry, operating the business of dentistry or using protected titles, we will bring criminal prosecutions. For more information visit our website here.

If you suspect any cases of illegal practice, report it here.