GDC welcomes Which? report on dental costs

A recent report that slammed the UK dental sector over failures to explain costs to patients has been welcomed by a major industry body.

The General Dental Council (GDC) on Monday (January 19th) announced its support for the Which? study, which rated eight out of 25 dentists either "poor" or "very poor" in their upfront transparency over pricing.

According to the GDC, it is vital that all dental professionals provide patients unambiguous information about costs and treatment options. This is one of the body's key principles, first published in September 2013, and non-compliance can lead to disciplinary proceedings.

In 2014, the GDC took action against 114 dentists for failing to follow this guidance – up from 98 in 2013 and 33 in 2012.

It claims that throughout 2015, it will be working together with both patients and dental professionals to continue to improve clarity over pricing and NHS and private options.