GDC issues illegal tooth whitening warning

The General Dental Council (GDC) has issued a reminder of the problems arising from unqualified dental practitioners offering tooth whitening procedures.

Coinciding with National Smile Month, the regulator is advising patients against having their teeth whitened unless their dentist has assessed whether or not such a treatment would be appropriate.

Only dentists, dental hygienists and dental therapists working to a dentist's prescription are permitted to offer whitening procedures, but the GDC has successfully prosecuted two individuals who were not registered to do so in the last year.

A guidance leaflet is being made available online to advise consumers who are considering this treatment, while dental professionals are being reminded of the need to avoid falling foul of regulations.

"The GDC will continue to prosecute these cases and is reminding patients and the public to alert it to any concerns they may have that tooth whitening is being undertaken unlawfully," said a statement from the industry body.

Last month, the organisation announced that it will be recommending its members take continuing professional development courses to improve their ability to detect oral cancer early.