An unregistered dental professional has been found guilty of illegal practice. The GDC achieved prosecution of this individual on 21st March 2013. The man was working as a dental technician and was not registered with the GDC. The GDC decided to take legal action as it is against the law for any dental professional to conduct or participate in dental treatment without being registered with the GDC.
It is considered an offence to unlawfully hold oneself out as being appropriately prepared to practice dentistry. This goes against sections 28 (1) and (2) of the Dentists Act 1984.
It is the law that all dental professionals including dentists, dental nurses, dental technicians, clinical dental technicians, dental hygienists, dental therapists and orthodontic therapists are required to register with the GDC in order to work in dental care in the United Kingdom. This law was put into practice to guarantee that only suitable, trained, skilled and qualified professionals are able to work in a dental team. This ensures the safety of patients and secures the upkeep of a high level of standard in the dentistry industry.
The unregistered technician pleaded not guilty at the Cambridge Magistrate’s court. However, the individual was delivered as guilty by the Chairwoman of the Magistrate’s verdict. It was quoted by the GDC that ‘the evidence of the prosecution witnesses was indisputable.’
The unregistered technician was fined £1000, as well as £15 for victim surcharge and full costs to the GDC which totaled to £2827.70.
All records of registered dental professionals can be found on the GDC’s website.