Help for Dentists and Dental Professionals Facing GDC Investigation

Understanding the GDC Investigation Process

Being contacted by the General Dental Council (GDC) about an investigation can be extremely worrying. Whether it relates to a patient complaint, a record-keeping issue, or a professional conduct concern, the fitness to practise process can feel intimidating and confusing.

The GDC’s role is to protect patients and uphold standards across the dental profession. During an investigation, they will assess whether your actions or behaviour have affected your fitness to practise and whether remediation or further action is required.

At this stage, your response — including how you reflect, learn, and take responsibility — can significantly influence the outcome.

Why Insight and Reflection Matter

When the GDC reviews your case, they are not only concerned with what happened, but also how you’ve responded since. Demonstrating insight and reflection shows that you understand the issue and are committed to ensuring it will not happen again.

Strong reflection includes:

• Accepting responsibility without making excuses.
• Recognising the potential impact on patients and colleagues.
• Identifying specific learning points and areas for improvement.
• Taking clear, documented steps to change your practice.

Writing a reflective statement and engaging in targeted CPD can show the GDC that you are accountable and proactive about your professional development.

Taking Steps to Remediate

Even while under investigation, there are important steps you can take to show remediation and professional learning. These actions demonstrate that you are taking your responsibilities seriously and working to rebuild trust.

Examples of proactive remediation include:

• Completing CPD-accredited courses on ethics, probity, and professionalism.
• Engaging in peer reflection, mentoring, or supervision.
• Keeping an updated reflective portfolio.
• Reviewing your practice against the GDC Standards for the Dental Team.

The GDC often views evidence of learning and remediation as a strong sign of insight and readiness to continue practising safely.

How Probity & Ethics Can Help

At Probity & Ethics, we support dental professionals who are under investigation or remediation. Our CPD-certified online courses are tailored to meet GDC expectations, helping you demonstrate insight, reflection, and remediation through structured, verifiable learning.

Our most relevant courses include:

• Fitness to Practise for Healthcare Professionals – understand the GDC process and how to evidence remediation effectively.
• Professionalism for Healthcare Professionals – strengthen your understanding of professional standards, communication, and accountability.
• Ethics for Healthcare Professionals – explore ethical reasoning, patient-centred care, and moral responsibility.
• Probity and Honesty for Healthcare Professionals – rebuild trust through transparency and truthful communication.

All courses are self-paced, confidential, and can be completed online from anywhere in the UK. Each provides a verifiable CPD certificate suitable for submission to the GDC as part of remediation evidence.

Seeking Guidance and Representation

It is important to seek professional support early in the process. Many dental professionals find it helpful to consult a defence organisation, legal adviser, or professional mentor who specialises in GDC cases.

Combining expert guidance with structured CPD through Probity & Ethics demonstrates responsibility, professionalism, and engagement — exactly what the GDC expects from registrants.

Key Takeaways

• A GDC investigation can be daunting, but proactive reflection and learning make a difference.
• Insight and remediation are key to demonstrating your commitment to professional standards.
• Completing CPD in ethics, professionalism, and probity shows accountability and improvement.
• Early engagement, honesty, and structured action can positively influence your outcome.

Take the Next Step

If you are currently facing a GDC investigation or fitness to practise hearing, take proactive steps today to demonstrate your professionalism and dedication to safe, ethical practice.

Visit our Online Courses to explore CPD options in Ethics, Professionalism, and Fitness to Practise. Each course provides verifiable evidence of reflection and remediation that can support your GDC case and future career.

Taking initiative now can make a real difference in how your case is assessed — and help you move forward with confidence.