Illegal tooth whitener

06 February 2014
Volume 29 · Issue 10

The General Dental Council (GDC) has successfully prosecuted a non-registrant for unlawfully practising dentistry, namely tooth whitening.

On February 5, 2014 Michael Flanagan plead guilty at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court to unlawfully practising dentistry at Power Whitening in Nottingham on January 10, 2012.

This is contrary to Section 38 (1) and (2) of the Dentists Act 1984.

Mr Flanagan was given a conditional discharge, ordered to pay £355 in compensation and a £15 victim surcharge. He was also ordered to pay costs to the GDC of £1000.

Only dentists, dental hygienists and dental therapists (working to the prescription of a dentist) can carry out tooth whitening.

A High Court decision in May 2013 confirmed that tooth whitening is the practice of dentistry and should only be undertaken by registered dental professionals.

More information on tooth whitening can be found on the GDC website.