Guidance and Policies
Guidance and Policies for the Dental Team
As a DCP you are expected to adhere to various guidance and policies. It is important to be aware of the 9 core principles contained within the standards as set out by the GDC. These are:
-Put patients’ interests first.
-Communicate effectively with patients.
-Obtain valid consent.
-Maintain and protect patients’ information.
-Have a clear and effective complaints procedure.
-Work with colleagues in a way that is in patients’ best interests.
-Maintain, develop and work within our professional knowledge and skills.
-Raise concerns if patients are at risk.
-Make sure our personal behaviour maintains confidence in us and the dental profession.
Your Responsibility
You have an individual responsibility to behave professionally and follow these principles at all times.
The standards set out what you must do. If you do not meet these standards, you may be removed from the GDC register and not be able to work as a dental professional.
You are expected to follow the guidance and use your professional judgment. Furthermore you are expected to demonstrate insight at all times and be able to justify any decision that is not in line with the guidance. Serious or persistent failure to follow the guidance could see you removed from the GDC register. As a result you will not be able to work as a dental professional.
For a more information on principles and standards as set out by the GDC click here.
Standards: Guidance and Policies
Safeguarding vulnerable adults and children
Child protection and the dental team
Guidance on reporting criminal convictions
Guidance on prescribing medicines
Policy information for Primary Dental Services
Publications from the FGDP UK:
-Standards in Dentistry
-Clinical Examination and Record Keeping
-Selection Criteria for Dental Radiography
-Antimicrobial Prescribing for General Dental Practitioners
-Dementia-Friendly Dentistry
-Training Standards in Implant Dentistry
-Key Skills in Primary Dental Care
-Pathways in Practice
Medical and dental students: Health clearance for Hepatitis B Hepatitis C HIV and Tuberculosis
Clear sexual boundaries in healthcare
CPR and training – quality standards for primary dental care
Guidance on regulating dental services – CQC
Standards for Conscious Sedation in the Provision of Dental Care
Guidance on Ionising Radiation Regulations 2017
Guidance for Dental Practitioners on the safe use of X-Ray equipment