Latest updates from the GDC
View from the Chair
Dr Helen Phillips highlights the ‘real step forward’ that the Minister for Health and Care, Stephen Kinnock MP expressed at our recent announcement about the new ORE contract, which could more than double the number of dentists joining the register via the ORE route. The Chair also reflects on the value of meeting our stakeholders and partners, understanding each other’s priorities and what professionalism means for dentistry.
Read more on the Chair’s reflections this month.
Modernising the registration experience
We are modernising our registration processes, as set out in our strategy for 2026–2028. In early 2026 we will introduce a new online registration service, myGDC, which will replace eGDC.
myGDC will make the application process more straightforward for people joining the register for the first time, and dental professionals adding additional titles or specialties, or rejoining the register. Applicants will have less reliance on paperwork and see real-time status updates for their applications.
Registrants will be able to keep their information up to date more easily, complete their annual renewal and working patterns information and manage their CPD declaration.
We invited stakeholders across the dental sector for a preview and their feedback will help us to plan a smooth transition. There will be more engagement sessions in early 2026.
Dental professionals don’t need to take any action now. We’ll provide more information in January.
GDC publishes ambitious new strategy to build trust and transform dental regulation
We have published our new strategy 2026-2028, committing to significant change and improvement over the next three years - and towards 2030.
Our vision is to be a trusted and effective regulator, supporting dental professionals to provide safe and effective care for their patients. To do this, we will champion a model of regulation that supports professionalism, enables learning, and resolves issues quickly and proportionately.
Discrimination has no place in dentistry
Two years on from our statement about ‘Maintaining professional standards in relation to controversial issues’, we are clear that discrimination has no place in dentistry. We urge dental professionals to think carefully about how what they say and do may be perceived by their patients, their fellow professionals and the wider community, and to act at all times in ways which reflect high standards of professionalism.
Read the updated statement here.
GDC announces new alternative evidence policy to support refugee and displaced dental professionals
We have announced a new policy to accept alternative forms of evidence from refugee and displaced dental professionals, removing unnecessary barriers for those unable to provide standard documentation due to circumstances beyond their control.
The policy will apply to dentists with international qualifications pursuing exam-based routes to join our register, as well as dental care professionals with overseas qualifications undergoing assessment.
New research reveals participants’ experiences of our Fitness to Practise process
We have published two research reports that deepen understanding of Fitness to Practise (FtP), providing valuable insight into how the process could be further improved for participants as part of our strategy to improve the FtP process.
The first developed and evaluated a survey of registrant and informant experiences up to the Case Examiner decision. The second examined communication and support throughout the FtP process, involving registrants, informants and GDC staff.
Read about the key findings from the reports.
Other recent news
Blogpost: The Staircase of a Tooth: A Restorative Philosophy for a New Era
Information and guidance
Revised Scope of Practice guidance
Supporting the dental team - a guide for managers and employers
Useful links