The General Dental Council (GDC) is the independent regulator for dental professionals across the United Kingdom, including dentists, dental nurses, dental technicians, and other registered dental care professionals. Registration with the GDC is a legal requirement for anyone wishing to practise dentistry or related professions in the UK.
Key Functions of the GDC
The GDC’s primary purpose is to protect patient safety and uphold public confidence in the dental profession. To achieve this, the GDC:
- Registers qualified dental professionals
- Sets and enforces professional standards
- Oversees education and training for dental professionals
- Investigates complaints and concerns about dental professionals
- Takes appropriate action against those whose fitness to practise is in question
How We Can Assist with GDC Cases
We help dental professionals facing GDC investigations with expert defence and strategic advice.
Led by Jonathan Meadows, a former Chief Prosecutor for the GDC, we bring unparalleled experience and insider knowledge of the GDC process to every case, ensuring a tailored, meticulous approach to securing the best outcomes.
Why Choose Regulation Resolution for GDC Representation?
Jonathan Meadows brings invaluable expertise to Regulation Resolution, having previously led the GDC’s prosecution team. His deep understanding of the regulatory landscape enables him to anticipate the GDC’s approach and craft bespoke strategies to protect your interests.
Our team has successfully handled a broad range of cases, including:
- Allegations of clinical incompetence or poor performance
- Serious misconduct, including dishonesty
- Health concerns impacting professional practice
- Professional boundary issues
We provide comprehensive support at every stage of GDC proceedings, from responding to initial concerns to representation before the Interim Orders Committee (IOC) or at fitness to practise hearings.
Our Approach
We understand the significant stress that GDC investigations can cause and the potential impact on your professional reputation, finances, and personal life. Our approach is proactive and supportive, focusing on:
- Gathering and presenting all relevant evidence
- Preparing robust submissions
- Providing expert representation at hearings
- Collaborating with experienced defence counsel
This attention to detail has earned us a reputation for achieving outstanding results for our clients.
Types of Cases We Handle
Our expertise spans a wide range of regulatory matters, including:
- Advising during GDC investigations
- Attendance at GDC meetings
- Preparing responses to Rule 4 correspondence
- Representation at Interim Orders Committee hearings
- Representation at fitness to practise hearings
- Assistance with review hearings and restoration applications
The GDC Investigative Process
Referral and Initial Assessment
The GDC receives numerous complaints each year, with approximately 40% being dismissed early.
When concerns are raised, the GDC assesses whether they question a professional’s fitness to practise. If the concern meets their threshold, an investigation is opened, and the professional will be notified.
Case Examiners
Once evidence is gathered, the case is reviewed by Case Examiners, who determine whether the case should proceed to a Practice Committee hearing. The committee’s options include:
- Taking no further action
- Issuing advice or warnings
- Referring the case to a Practice Committee
Interim Orders Committee (IOC)
The IOC assesses whether interim restrictions are needed to protect patients, maintain public confidence, or support the registrant. Possible outcomes include:
- No action
- Imposing conditions on practice for up to 18 months
- Suspension for up to 18 months
Seeking legal representation at this stage is critical, as effective submissions can significantly influence the outcome.
Practice Committee Hearings
When cases proceed to hearings, the Dental Professionals Hearing Service determines whether a registrant’s fitness to practise is impaired and what sanctions, if any, are appropriate. Sanctions may include:
- Reprimands
- Conditions on practice
- Suspension for up to 12 months
- Erasure from the Register
Our Experience
We have substantial expertise in managing fitness-to-practise cases, including:
- Clinical incidents
- Allegations of poor performance
- Misconduct and dishonesty
- Substance misuse and mental health concerns
- Fraud, UDA claiming, and other probity allegations
Funding Options
We offer flexible funding arrangements tailored to your needs, including hourly rates or fixed fees.
We also work with leading insurance providers and defence organisations to ensure you have access to the best possible representation.
If you are facing a GDC investigation or hearing, contact Regulation Resolution today. We are here to safeguard your professional future.