Number of registered dental care professionals rises by 5%

The number of dental care professionals (DCPs) on the UK register has increased by 5% following the latest annual renewal period, according to new figures published by the General Dental Council (GDC).

A total of 84,828 DCPs are now registered with the regulator, up from 80,901 in the previous year. The increase continues a trend of growth across the dental workforce and reflects strong retention levels among registered professionals.

Dental nurses remain the largest professional group on the register, accounting for the majority of DCPs. Growth was also recorded across other registered professions, including dental hygienists, dental therapists, dental technicians, clinical dental technicians, orthodontic therapists and dental prosthetists.

Annual renewal is a statutory requirement for all registered DCPs wishing to remain on the GDC register. Registrants must complete continuing professional development requirements and declare that they meet the standards expected of dental professionals.

The GDC said the increase in registrant numbers provides an updated picture of the dental workforce and supports its role in maintaining public confidence in dental services. The regulator publishes annual registration data to help inform workforce planning and provide insight into trends across the profession.

The latest figures follow the completion of the annual renewal process and represent the number of professionals eligible to practise in the UK under GDC registration requirements.

Stefan Czerniawski, Executive Director of Strategy at the GDC, said the increase in registrant numbers demonstrates the continued commitment of dental care professionals to maintaining their registration and delivering care to patients across the UK.

The regulator noted that annual registration statistics offer an important snapshot of the profession and contribute to understanding workforce developments across the dental sector.

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