Implant dentistry: Qualifications warning

Dentists have an “ethical responsibility” only to perform procedures they are trained in and competent to carry out, an industry body has asserted.

Britain’s General Dental Council (GDC) has warned professionals that if they perform work in an area in which they are not trained, they could lose their registration.

It made its comments following concerns over the practice of implant dentistry among general practitioners.

The GDC notes that unless he or she has received additional training, a UK-qualified dentist will not be competent to perform implant dentistry.

It added: “The GDC is currently considering whether or not further measures are required to regulate dental professionals’ practice in skills significantly beyond those acquired in the primary qualification for registration.”

Last month, the GDC prosecuted a Bristol man for illegally practicing dentistry, adding that dental professionals have to meet the high standards the public believes they will have.