GDC completes ethical advertising consultation

The General Dental Council (GDC) has noted the high levels of response it has received during the now-concluded consultation for its forthcoming review of ethical advertising standards.

Suggestions for changes to guidance on advertising regulations within the sector are set to be outlined in a forthcoming paper following the completion of the consulation, with final approval to be given in December 2010.

Among the issues which were debated during the GDC consultation was the use of the 'doctor' title among dental professionals, as well as what information should be provided on dentists' websites.

David Smith, chair of the GDC's standards committee, said it was important to collate opinions on these matters before any changes are made.

He added: "Last year alone the GDC's Fitness to Practise team dealt with over 100 cases concerning advertising and we think it's time to strengthen our guidance in this area."

This comes after the organisation opened a new 12-week consultation last week into the planned introduction of a revalidation system for UK dentists.