GDC asks for feedback on new dental standards

The General Dental Council (GDC) is calling on registrants to provide feedback on its proposed new standards for dental professionals before the end of the year.

A consultation is currently running as the GDC seeks to canvas as many opinions as possible on its new regulatory changes before it closes at the end of December 2012.

Planned amendments to the GDC Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics include the provision of a simple list of costs among private practitioners and the mandatory reporting of any criminal proceedings involving registrants.

Moreover, members of dental teams will need to be provided with opportunities to learn and improve, while it must also be demonstrated that appropriately trained and registered team members deal with patients.

The GDC stressed the importance of members having their say as soon as possible, because "if they are approved, they will impact on each and every person on our registers".

Earlier this month, the organisation updated its guidance on tooth whitening procedures to comply with new EU regulations on the strength of chemicals used during such processes.