Restoring your name to the register

Since 31 July 2006 when the Dentists Act 1984 was amended, the PCC has operated under two parallel legal systems. If a complaint was received by the GDC before 31 July 2006 then the case is considered under ‘old rules’; if it was received after 31 July 2006 then it is considered under ‘new rules’.

A dental professional whose name has been erased from the Register under the 'old rules' may apply for restoration to the Register 10 months after they have been erased. The applicant may also submit testimonials from persons of standing in support of the application. Under the ‘new rules' a dental professional may apply for restoration five years after they have been erased.

To assist the PCC in considering these applications, the GDC's solicitor first recalls the evidence which led to the erasure. The dental professional applying to be restored to the Register may then address the committee and call witnesses in support of the application. The applicant may be represented by counsel or a solicitor at the hearing.

Under the 'new rules' the PCC may decide to restore a practitioner's name subject to certain conditions. The committee may also decide to impose these conditions with immediate effect.