Tariq Drabu Highlights Illegal Dentistry

Illegal dentistry – that is a topic that has been coming up quite regularly lately, and one that I feel falls fairly close into the realms of the illegal teeth whitening practice that I have previously touched upon. You only have to look at the General Dental Council's (GDC) newsfeed and you’ll no doubt find mention of illegal ‘Dentists’ being prosecuted for various acts.

What is meant by an illegal dentist? These are most often individuals that have taken it upon themselves to conduct dental procedures without a dental license, the right equipment or in extreme cases, the appropriate training. Needless to say, it’s a terrifying thought.

The most recent cases to be brought to light involve "practitioners" in Wirral and Surrey, both of whom were operating dental clinics without the relevant licensing, with one of the offenders never having registered with the GDC in the first place.

Just to highlight a fundamental point made by the GDC in both cases; “By law all dentists, dental nurses, dental technicians, clinical dental technicians, dental hygienists, dental therapists and orthodontic therapists must be registered with the GDC to work in the UK. This is to ensure only appropriately qualified and skilled dental professionals are part of the dental team looking after patients.”

The fact that there are members of the medical community that are openly breaking the trust that the general public place in medical practitioners not only worries me, but also astounds me. In some extreme cases, these medical rogues that are looking to save money could potentially be putting lives at risk. 

Needless to say, this is a topic that I feel very strongly about and fully support the decision of the GDC to take up prosecution proceedings. At the Langley Dental Practice all our staff are GDC registered and have been for many years. Trust and care are just two of the things that should precede all other motives to work in such roles in any medical field.

Regards,
Tariq Drabu