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Principle One

Put patient's interests first

 

Principle Two

Communicate effectively with patients

 

Principle Three

Obtain valid consent

 

Principle Four

Maintain and protect patients' information

 

Principle Five

Have a clear and effective complaints procedure

 

Principle Six

Work with colleagues in a way that is in patients' best interests

 

Principle Seven

Maintain, develop and work within your professional knowledge and skills

 

Principle Eight

Raise concerns if patients are at risk

 

Principle Nine

Make sure your personal behaviour maintains patients' confidence in you and the dental profession

 

Focus on Standards is a set of 9 principles, each containing Standards, supporting guidance, FAQs, scenarios and other learning materials to help you apply the Standards in your daily work.

 

Standards for the Dental Team applies to:

  • Dentists
  • Dental Nurses
  • Dental Hygienists
  • Dental Therapists
  • Orthodontic Therapists
  • Dental Technicians
  • Clinical Dental Technicians

The principles are all equally important and are not listed in order of priority. They are supplemented by additional guidance documents and which you must also follow.

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 our register and not be able to work as a dental professional.

The guidance is there to help you to meet the standards. You are expected to follow the guidance, to use your professional judgment, 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 our register and not able to work as a dental professional.