Site Coming From: 33

British Dental Association all rights reserved. Registered office 64 Wimpole Street London W1G8YS. Limited by guarantee (14161) England

Go United Kingdom National variation Equal opportunities Privacy policy Site help Legal Accessibility
Home About Us Join BDA Contact Us Shop BDJ Library BDA Museum BDA Plus Smile 3D Mouth
List of BDA advice sheets Where am I? Home Health body PCTs
List of BDA advice sheets
BDA advice sheets cover a wide range of topics and are available free to BDA
members. Advice sheets are BDA copyright protected. They cannot be transmitted or
reproduced, without the written permission of the BDA.
A1: Planning permission
Establishing a new practice or extending an established one will usually mean
obtaining planning permission from the local authority. In some cases this is a
simple, speedy process, but often it can entail discussion, expense, delay and
frustration.
A2: Buying and selling a practice
Buying a practice is still a popular option for young dentists wishing to run their own
businesses. This advice sheet provides information on all aspects of the process.
A3: Health and safety law for general practice
One of the most widely read advice sheets; it contains everything a dentist needs to
know to comply with health and safety law. The advice sheet summarises all of the
relevant legislation and will tell you what is required.
A4: Private practice made simple: building a successful practice
Many dentists have changed the way that they practise and increased the amount of
private care which they provide. The process is not always easy and advice from
colleagues who have already reduced their dependence on the NHS has proved to be
helpful.
A5: Risk assessment in dentistry
All employers are required to carry out an assessment of the risks present in the
workplace or from work activities. This advice sheet guides you through the principles
of risk assessment in a dental context.
A6: Marketing in dentistry
Dentists must comply with General Dental Council rules on advertising and
canvassing. This advice sheet provides hints on practice promotion that have been
shown to be effective in dentistry.
A8: Employing an assistant in general practice
A growing number of practices are employing dentists as employed assistants rather
than associates. Assistantships are potentially less prone to problems than
associateships because the agreement has a basis in law and the responsibilities of
practice owner and assistant are clear.
A9: Corporate dental practice
With the growth of chains of dental practice, more dentists are considering a career
with a dental corporate body. This advice sheet discusses the legal provisions, the
opportunities offered and aspects to consider when negotiating your terms and
conditions, whether as an employee or self-employed.
A10: Partnership agreements
Dentists who choose to practise in a legally based partnership (with a sound written
partnership deed), enjoy one of the most rewarding and secure practising
arrangements.
A11: Radiation in dentistry
This advice sheet contains information on complying with radiation legislation as well
as guidelines on good radiological practice.
A12: Infection control in dentistry
Dental practices invest time and money in ensuring that they comply with infection
control guidelines. The BDA guidelines are endorsed by the General Dental Council
as being the procedures which dentists have to follow.
A13: Locumships in general dental practice
Finding and engaging a locum can be difficult and flexibility is needed in agreeing
appropriate terms.
A14: Dentists' maternity arrangements and pay.
The majority of women dentists practising in the NHS and who take maternity leave
are entitled to maternity pay.
A16: Leases and Licences
A lease is a protected right in the premises where a licence is merely permission to
use the premises. t is an important distinction not only in determining the status of
your own property rights, but also when granting someone else rights to your property.
A17: Performer agreements in England and Wales
This advice sheet provides advice for both associates and practice owners and
contains model contracts for NHS and mixed practice in England and Wales where
the practice owner holds the contract with the Primary Care Organisation or where the
associate holds the contract. A separate advice sheet (A19) covers employed
performers.
A18: Setting up in practice
One of the most exhausting and exciting projects that general dental practitioners can
enter into is setting up a brand new dental practice. Sparing the time to read the whole
advice sheet will save a lot of time in the future and prevent common mistakes.
A19: Employed performers in England and Wales
This advice sheet suggests conditions of employment for a performer dentist in
general dental practice in England and Wales, in the form of a model statement which
complies with the requirements of employment legislation.
A20: Co-operative working
Through means of an appropriate legal 'vehicle', be that a form of cooperative, limited
liability company or partnership variant, individual dentists operating as small
businesses can band together under one 'umbrella' to present a single face to
suppliers, customers and potential business partners. This advice sheet explains the
advantages, disadvantages and how to get started.
A21: Associate agreement for private practice
This advice sheet contains a model associate contract for fully private practices. The
model is designed for practices where patients pay for care on a fee-per-item basis or
through a capitation scheme or both. If you have any NHS patients at all, even if your
practice is overwhelmingly private, this model is not appropriate for you.
B1: Ethics in dentistry
The BDA provides a comprehensive advisory service on dental law and ethics. This
advice sheet gives background information on all aspects of ethics in dentistry and
complements the GDC's Maintaining Standards. It should be read by dental students
as part of their undergraduate ethics course and by new graduates confronted by the
realities of practice. More experienced practitioners use it for reference and as a
reminder of their professional responsibilities.
B2: Data protection
Dentists who hold personal identifiable information on computer or in manual records
have responsibilities under the 1998 Data Protection Act. The advice sheet helps
dentists to register correctly and answers common questions about who must
register and how to ensure that patients are given access to their records in
accordance with the law.
B3: Giving Evidence
Occasionally dentists are asked by patients or the Crown Prosecution Service to
provide a report on a patient or give evidence in court as professional or expert
witnesses. Acting as a witness can be a nerve-wracking experience and this advice
sheet will help a dentist prepare. Included are hints on court procedure, writing reports
and the fees and expenses payable for different types of witnesses.
B4: What to do when a general dental practitioner dies
Coping with bereavement is always very difficult for family and colleagues but can be
especially worrying for the family of a general dental practitioner. The immediate
problems of looking after patients, payments, keeping a practice going, appointing a
locum and eventually selling the whole or a share of a practice, all can cause worry
and stress.
B5: Dental discipline committees
Every year, a minority of NHS dentists are disciplined for an alleged breach of their
GDS Terms of Service. This process causes great stress for the practitioner and
knowledge of the procedure and how to respond is essential, even though the
dentist's defence organisation will usually manage the process and represent the
dentist. Members of Dental Discipline Committees and clinical assessors should
also be aware of the procedures that must be followed.
B6: Running your dental practice as a company or Limited Liability
Partnership
In July we expect the GDC to lift the restriction on dental practices being unable to
incorporate and run as Limited Companies or Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPS).
As a result, the BDA have produced a new advice sheet B6: Running your dental
practice as a company or Limited Liability Partnership, which explains to members the
changes that they can make to their practices, including the advantages and
disadvantages of incorporating.
B7: Practice visits
The changing nature of the NHS and new systems of clinical governance and clinical
audit have led to a new system of practice visits being introduced, to replace the old
practice inspections. Although retaining many of the characteristics of the old system,
the new regime is designed to focus particularly on providing help to dental practices
being visited as part of clinical governance as well as ensuring that health and safety
standards are maintained. An additional benefit will be that the information collected
will enable the PCT to develop a profile of the GDS in their areas that will be helpful for
local commissioning.
B9: Prescribing in general dental practice
This advice sheet describes the rules and regulations regarding dental prescribing.
B10: Handling complaints
Dealing with patient complaints is a common experience for dentists. Most
complaints result from a breakdown in communication between patient and practice
and most dentists try to resolve the problem as quickly as possible. Complaints can
also be a valuable tool in alerting practice owners to problems and helping to improve
the practice.
B11: Handling Private Complaints
This advice sheet focuses on dealing with complaints from customers in private
practice where difficulties have arisen in the past due to the lack of an official
complaints procedure. If used effectively, a simple complaints policy can become an
effective management tool and turn a dissatisfied customer into a satisfied one.
B12: Performance Concerns
At some time in your practising career, you may encounter a colleague whose work,
behaviour or activities cause you concern. You may also face a time when you feel that
your own behaviour or professional performance is putting your patients at risk. In
either situation, you should take action but do you know who can advise you and what
support is available? This advice sheet provides practical advice on what to do and
where to go for help.
C2: Collecting money from patients
Minimising bad debts is an important part of successful practice management.
Patients now expect a range of ways to pay for their dental care, including credit and
debit cards and credit agreements.
C3: Business plans
Business plans may be used for a variety of purposes including starting or
purchasing a practice, developing the practice and improving financial performance.
The advice sheet provides guidance on preparing a business plan for an existing and
a new practice and emphasises what should be included. Also included is help with
cashflow forecasting and analysing the practice's performance.
C4 Private dental plans
This advice sheet comes in two parts. The first section introduces the general
principles of private dental plans and will help you identify the areas you need to
consider when choosing and implementing a private dental plan. The second section
describes the main features of the major schemes and is updated approximately
every 12-months.
C6: Financial management in general dental practice
Effective financial management is crucial for the success of a practice and this advice
sheet explains the roles of cashflow forecasting, income, stock and expenditure
control, as well as the balance sheet, profit and loss and capital accounts and helps
you understand their formats and what they tell you.
C7: Superannuation in the GDS
The updated version will be available shortly. Please email if you would like a copy
emailed to you as soon as it is available - Please state the advice sheet required in
the subject. C7 describes the main elements of the NHS Pension Scheme as it
applies to general dental practitioners. It covers eligibility for membership of the
scheme, contributions and benefits. Outline information is provided on retirement age,
early retirement and returning to work after taking retirement.
C8: Fee setting in private dental practice
Setting private fees can be a difficult process and the most common approach is
pirating someone else's because you feel that if yours are broadly similar you will be
offering the "market rate". However the fees charged may not cover your overheads or
ensure profitability or reflect the time or complexity of the treatment.
C9: In-practice capitation schemes
Many dentists and patients alike benefit from private capitation payment schemes.
For dentists, it offers an element of financial stability and practice growth.
D1: Contracts of employment
As well as being a legal requirement, it is good management practice to give
employees a written statement of their main terms and conditions of employment.
This statement forms part of an employee's contract of employment (which is
everything that has been agreed between employer and employee). The advice sheet
contains a model BDA contract for staff in general dental practice and includes the
BDA's recommendations on sickness and holiday pay.
D2: Rewarding staff
The publication of this advice follows the discontinuation of the annual minimum pay
recommendations for professionals complementary to dentistry (PCDs) which the
BDA issued up until 2007.
D3: Employment of dental hygienists
This advice sheets contains a contract of employment for dental hygienists in general
dental practice (which should not be used for those working under self-employed
contracts for services). Also included is information on the duties that dental
hygienists are currently permitted to perform. Dental hygienists' employment status is
also covered but up to date advice should be sought from the BDA if a self-employed
contract is envisaged.
D5 Working with dental therapists in general dental practice
Dental therapists are now able to work in general practice and have much to offer
practices looking to develop their skill range and services available to patients.
Developed with the British Association of Dental Therapists, this advice sheet
explains what a therapist can do and how they can contribute to the team.
D9: Employees' family arrangements and pay
For a small business, a member of staff going on maternity leave can cause
disruptions. The law relating to maternity leave and pay is complex and female
employees enjoy special protection against being dismissed or suffering any
discrimination or detriment because they are pregnant.
D10: Redundancy
This advice sheet provides a clear explanation of the procedure to be undertaken in
selecting an employee for redundancy to ensure that the process is fair.
D11: Practice disciplinary procedures and dismissal
Unfair dismissal proceedings by employees can be extremely expensive and
stressful. Dismissing an employee must be for a fair reason and use a fair procedure
and this advice sheet explains what this means in practice.
D12: Staff recruitment
Making the right choice when recruiting a new member of staff makes financial and
business sense. The recruitment process is also covered by discrimination
legislation and employers should be able to demonstrate that they chose the best
person for the job regardless of race, sex or disability.
D13: Discrimination
Discrimination law is wide ranging and covers employees and self-employed
contractors such as associates and dental hygienists. This advice sheet describes
the scope of the legislation and the actions by employers that might be considered to
be discriminatory.
D14: Violence at work
Coping with abusive or threatening patients is a common part of dental practice.
There are ways in which dentists can protect themselves and their staff by taking
sensible precautions. The advice sheet brings together information on personal
security and applies it to the dental context.
D15: Self-empIoyed hygienists
Many dental hygienists in general dental practices are engaged as self-employed
contractors but this can lead to serious problems with the DSS, the Inland Revenue
and industrial tribunals. This advice sheet considers the characteristics of self-
employed status and provides a contract for services that could be used as a basis of
an agreement between dental hygienist and dental practice.
D16 Tackling harassment by patients
Harassment is: unwanted, unreasonable and offensive behaviour; and behaviour that
creates fear, demoralisation and humiliation and a hostile or ineffective working
environment. A complaints procedure is also included in this advice sheet.
D17 Practice grievance procedures
Employers must operate a grievance procedure for their employees. The advice sheet
provides information on dealing with grievances, a suggested model procedure,
model letters and penalties if the grievance procedure is not used.
E1: Working abroad
This advice sheet covers working in Europe and other countries where UK dental
qualifications are accepted.
E6: Treating overseas patients
This advice sheet provides guidance on how to register a patient from overseas under
the General Dental Services.
E7: A guide to GDS regulations
This advice sheet provides the first comprehensive introduction to GDS rules and
regulations. The Regulations are open to interpretation and the advice sheet gives the
BDA's view on their meaning.
E8: Private care for NHS patients
Dentists are able to offer private dental care to their registered NHS patients as a
means of increasing patient choice and offering treatments that are additional to
those required to secure and maintain the patient's oral health.
E10: CPD, clinical governance, audit and peer review
Check up on the requirements for complying with the rules on keeping up to date with
your CPD, clinical governance and peer review and audit. There is also guidance on
how to select the right CPD for your needs and working out a personal development
plan.
E11: Guide To GDS in England and Wales
A comprehensive guide to the new GDS and PDS in England and Wales, this advice
sheet covers the general contracting arrangements and detailed regulations.
E12: Careers in dentistry
Dentistry provides a range of opportunities that offer work in an interesting and
challenging vocation. The profession has undergone significant change in recent
years, and more responsibility has been devolved to the dental team. The support
staff; such as dental nurses, dental hygienists and therapists and dental technicians
are known as dental care professionals (DCPs), and play an integral part in the
services provided by the modern dental practice.

Back To Top
Applies to: All
Print page
Last reviewed: 27/09/2011
PDF this page
Last updated: 24/08/2011
Search BDA
Help with searching
Advanced search
BDA keyword search
Find an event
Find press release
Find product
Login or Register
Why not also try?
BDA and Dentsply Student
Clinician Programme
Work in general dental
practice without inclusion
on a NHS list
Further information and
BDA contacts
English language testing
qualifications for
acceptance onto an NHS
performers list
History of the BDA
PCTs
Clinical Governance
PCT newsletters
Good Practice Scheme
BDA Tender training
workshops
List of BDA advice
sheets
Site Coming From: 33

British Dental Association all rights reserved. Registered office 64 Wimpole Street London W1G8YS. Limited by guarantee (14161) England

Go United Kingdom National variation Equal opportunities Privacy policy Site help Legal Accessibility
Home About Us Join BDA Contact Us Shop BDJ Library BDA Museum BDA Plus Smile 3D Mouth
List of BDA advice sheets Where am I? Home Health body PCTs
List of BDA advice sheets
BDA advice sheets cover a wide range of topics and are available free to BDA
members. Advice sheets are BDA copyright protected. They cannot be transmitted or
reproduced, without the written permission of the BDA.
A1: Planning permission
Establishing a new practice or extending an established one will usually mean
obtaining planning permission from the local authority. In some cases this is a
simple, speedy process, but often it can entail discussion, expense, delay and
frustration.
A2: Buying and selling a practice
Buying a practice is still a popular option for young dentists wishing to run their own
businesses. This advice sheet provides information on all aspects of the process.
A3: Health and safety law for general practice
One of the most widely read advice sheets; it contains everything a dentist needs to
know to comply with health and safety law. The advice sheet summarises all of the
relevant legislation and will tell you what is required.
A4: Private practice made simple: building a successful practice
Many dentists have changed the way that they practise and increased the amount of
private care which they provide. The process is not always easy and advice from
colleagues who have already reduced their dependence on the NHS has proved to be
helpful.
A5: Risk assessment in dentistry
All employers are required to carry out an assessment of the risks present in the
workplace or from work activities. This advice sheet guides you through the principles
of risk assessment in a dental context.
A6: Marketing in dentistry
Dentists must comply with General Dental Council rules on advertising and
canvassing. This advice sheet provides hints on practice promotion that have been
shown to be effective in dentistry.
A8: Employing an assistant in general practice
A growing number of practices are employing dentists as employed assistants rather
than associates. Assistantships are potentially less prone to problems than
associateships because the agreement has a basis in law and the responsibilities of
practice owner and assistant are clear.
A9: Corporate dental practice
With the growth of chains of dental practice, more dentists are considering a career
with a dental corporate body. This advice sheet discusses the legal provisions, the
opportunities offered and aspects to consider when negotiating your terms and
conditions, whether as an employee or self-employed.
A10: Partnership agreements
Dentists who choose to practise in a legally based partnership (with a sound written
partnership deed), enjoy one of the most rewarding and secure practising
arrangements.
A11: Radiation in dentistry
This advice sheet contains information on complying with radiation legislation as well
as guidelines on good radiological practice.
A12: Infection control in dentistry
Dental practices invest time and money in ensuring that they comply with infection
control guidelines. The BDA guidelines are endorsed by the General Dental Council
as being the procedures which dentists have to follow.
A13: Locumships in general dental practice
Finding and engaging a locum can be difficult and flexibility is needed in agreeing
appropriate terms.
A14: Dentists' maternity arrangements and pay.
The majority of women dentists practising in the NHS and who take maternity leave
are entitled to maternity pay.
A16: Leases and Licences
A lease is a protected right in the premises where a licence is merely permission to
use the premises. t is an important distinction not only in determining the status of
your own property rights, but also when granting someone else rights to your property.
A17: Performer agreements in England and Wales
This advice sheet provides advice for both associates and practice owners and
contains model contracts for NHS and mixed practice in England and Wales where
the practice owner holds the contract with the Primary Care Organisation or where the
associate holds the contract. A separate advice sheet (A19) covers employed
performers.
A18: Setting up in practice
One of the most exhausting and exciting projects that general dental practitioners can
enter into is setting up a brand new dental practice. Sparing the time to read the whole
advice sheet will save a lot of time in the future and prevent common mistakes.
A19: Employed performers in England and Wales
This advice sheet suggests conditions of employment for a performer dentist in
general dental practice in England and Wales, in the form of a model statement which
complies with the requirements of employment legislation.
A20: Co-operative working
Through means of an appropriate legal 'vehicle', be that a form of cooperative, limited
liability company or partnership variant, individual dentists operating as small
businesses can band together under one 'umbrella' to present a single face to
suppliers, customers and potential business partners. This advice sheet explains the
advantages, disadvantages and how to get started.
A21: Associate agreement for private practice
This advice sheet contains a model associate contract for fully private practices. The
model is designed for practices where patients pay for care on a fee-per-item basis or
through a capitation scheme or both. If you have any NHS patients at all, even if your
practice is overwhelmingly private, this model is not appropriate for you.
B1: Ethics in dentistry
The BDA provides a comprehensive advisory service on dental law and ethics. This
advice sheet gives background information on all aspects of ethics in dentistry and
complements the GDC's Maintaining Standards. It should be read by dental students
as part of their undergraduate ethics course and by new graduates confronted by the
realities of practice. More experienced practitioners use it for reference and as a
reminder of their professional responsibilities.
B2: Data protection
Dentists who hold personal identifiable information on computer or in manual records
have responsibilities under the 1998 Data Protection Act. The advice sheet helps
dentists to register correctly and answers common questions about who must
register and how to ensure that patients are given access to their records in
accordance with the law.
B3: Giving Evidence
Occasionally dentists are asked by patients or the Crown Prosecution Service to
provide a report on a patient or give evidence in court as professional or expert
witnesses. Acting as a witness can be a nerve-wracking experience and this advice
sheet will help a dentist prepare. Included are hints on court procedure, writing reports
and the fees and expenses payable for different types of witnesses.
B4: What to do when a general dental practitioner dies
Coping with bereavement is always very difficult for family and colleagues but can be
especially worrying for the family of a general dental practitioner. The immediate
problems of looking after patients, payments, keeping a practice going, appointing a
locum and eventually selling the whole or a share of a practice, all can cause worry
and stress.
B5: Dental discipline committees
Every year, a minority of NHS dentists are disciplined for an alleged breach of their
GDS Terms of Service. This process causes great stress for the practitioner and
knowledge of the procedure and how to respond is essential, even though the
dentist's defence organisation will usually manage the process and represent the
dentist. Members of Dental Discipline Committees and clinical assessors should
also be aware of the procedures that must be followed.
B6: Running your dental practice as a company or Limited Liability
Partnership
In July we expect the GDC to lift the restriction on dental practices being unable to
incorporate and run as Limited Companies or Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPS).
As a result, the BDA have produced a new advice sheet B6: Running your dental
practice as a company or Limited Liability Partnership, which explains to members the
changes that they can make to their practices, including the advantages and
disadvantages of incorporating.
B7: Practice visits
The changing nature of the NHS and new systems of clinical governance and clinical
audit have led to a new system of practice visits being introduced, to replace the old
practice inspections. Although retaining many of the characteristics of the old system,
the new regime is designed to focus particularly on providing help to dental practices
being visited as part of clinical governance as well as ensuring that health and safety
standards are maintained. An additional benefit will be that the information collected
will enable the PCT to develop a profile of the GDS in their areas that will be helpful for
local commissioning.
B9: Prescribing in general dental practice
This advice sheet describes the rules and regulations regarding dental prescribing.
B10: Handling complaints
Dealing with patient complaints is a common experience for dentists. Most
complaints result from a breakdown in communication between patient and practice
and most dentists try to resolve the problem as quickly as possible. Complaints can
also be a valuable tool in alerting practice owners to problems and helping to improve
the practice.
B11: Handling Private Complaints
This advice sheet focuses on dealing with complaints from customers in private
practice where difficulties have arisen in the past due to the lack of an official
complaints procedure. If used effectively, a simple complaints policy can become an
effective management tool and turn a dissatisfied customer into a satisfied one.
B12: Performance Concerns
At some time in your practising career, you may encounter a colleague whose work,
behaviour or activities cause you concern. You may also face a time when you feel that
your own behaviour or professional performance is putting your patients at risk. In
either situation, you should take action but do you know who can advise you and what
support is available? This advice sheet provides practical advice on what to do and
where to go for help.
C2: Collecting money from patients
Minimising bad debts is an important part of successful practice management.
Patients now expect a range of ways to pay for their dental care, including credit and
debit cards and credit agreements.
C3: Business plans
Business plans may be used for a variety of purposes including starting or
purchasing a practice, developing the practice and improving financial performance.
The advice sheet provides guidance on preparing a business plan for an existing and
a new practice and emphasises what should be included. Also included is help with
cashflow forecasting and analysing the practice's performance.
C4 Private dental plans
This advice sheet comes in two parts. The first section introduces the general
principles of private dental plans and will help you identify the areas you need to
consider when choosing and implementing a private dental plan. The second section
describes the main features of the major schemes and is updated approximately
every 12-months.
C6: Financial management in general dental practice
Effective financial management is crucial for the success of a practice and this advice
sheet explains the roles of cashflow forecasting, income, stock and expenditure
control, as well as the balance sheet, profit and loss and capital accounts and helps
you understand their formats and what they tell you.
C7: Superannuation in the GDS
The updated version will be available shortly. Please email if you would like a copy
emailed to you as soon as it is available - Please state the advice sheet required in
the subject. C7 describes the main elements of the NHS Pension Scheme as it
applies to general dental practitioners. It covers eligibility for membership of the
scheme, contributions and benefits. Outline information is provided on retirement age,
early retirement and returning to work after taking retirement.
C8: Fee setting in private dental practice
Setting private fees can be a difficult process and the most common approach is
pirating someone else's because you feel that if yours are broadly similar you will be
offering the "market rate". However the fees charged may not cover your overheads or
ensure profitability or reflect the time or complexity of the treatment.
C9: In-practice capitation schemes
Many dentists and patients alike benefit from private capitation payment schemes.
For dentists, it offers an element of financial stability and practice growth.
D1: Contracts of employment
As well as being a legal requirement, it is good management practice to give
employees a written statement of their main terms and conditions of employment.
This statement forms part of an employee's contract of employment (which is
everything that has been agreed between employer and employee). The advice sheet
contains a model BDA contract for staff in general dental practice and includes the
BDA's recommendations on sickness and holiday pay.
D2: Rewarding staff
The publication of this advice follows the discontinuation of the annual minimum pay
recommendations for professionals complementary to dentistry (PCDs) which the
BDA issued up until 2007.
D3: Employment of dental hygienists
This advice sheets contains a contract of employment for dental hygienists in general
dental practice (which should not be used for those working under self-employed
contracts for services). Also included is information on the duties that dental
hygienists are currently permitted to perform. Dental hygienists' employment status is
also covered but up to date advice should be sought from the BDA if a self-employed
contract is envisaged.
D5 Working with dental therapists in general dental practice
Dental therapists are now able to work in general practice and have much to offer
practices looking to develop their skill range and services available to patients.
Developed with the British Association of Dental Therapists, this advice sheet
explains what a therapist can do and how they can contribute to the team.
D9: Employees' family arrangements and pay
For a small business, a member of staff going on maternity leave can cause
disruptions. The law relating to maternity leave and pay is complex and female
employees enjoy special protection against being dismissed or suffering any
discrimination or detriment because they are pregnant.
D10: Redundancy
This advice sheet provides a clear explanation of the procedure to be undertaken in
selecting an employee for redundancy to ensure that the process is fair.
D11: Practice disciplinary procedures and dismissal
Unfair dismissal proceedings by employees can be extremely expensive and
stressful. Dismissing an employee must be for a fair reason and use a fair procedure
and this advice sheet explains what this means in practice.
D12: Staff recruitment
Making the right choice when recruiting a new member of staff makes financial and
business sense. The recruitment process is also covered by discrimination
legislation and employers should be able to demonstrate that they chose the best
person for the job regardless of race, sex or disability.
D13: Discrimination
Discrimination law is wide ranging and covers employees and self-employed
contractors such as associates and dental hygienists. This advice sheet describes
the scope of the legislation and the actions by employers that might be considered to
be discriminatory.
D14: Violence at work
Coping with abusive or threatening patients is a common part of dental practice.
There are ways in which dentists can protect themselves and their staff by taking
sensible precautions. The advice sheet brings together information on personal
security and applies it to the dental context.
D15: Self-empIoyed hygienists
Many dental hygienists in general dental practices are engaged as self-employed
contractors but this can lead to serious problems with the DSS, the Inland Revenue
and industrial tribunals. This advice sheet considers the characteristics of self-
employed status and provides a contract for services that could be used as a basis of
an agreement between dental hygienist and dental practice.
D16 Tackling harassment by patients
Harassment is: unwanted, unreasonable and offensive behaviour; and behaviour that
creates fear, demoralisation and humiliation and a hostile or ineffective working
environment. A complaints procedure is also included in this advice sheet.
D17 Practice grievance procedures
Employers must operate a grievance procedure for their employees. The advice sheet
provides information on dealing with grievances, a suggested model procedure,
model letters and penalties if the grievance procedure is not used.
E1: Working abroad
This advice sheet covers working in Europe and other countries where UK dental
qualifications are accepted.
E6: Treating overseas patients
This advice sheet provides guidance on how to register a patient from overseas under
the General Dental Services.
E7: A guide to GDS regulations
This advice sheet provides the first comprehensive introduction to GDS rules and
regulations. The Regulations are open to interpretation and the advice sheet gives the
BDA's view on their meaning.
E8: Private care for NHS patients
Dentists are able to offer private dental care to their registered NHS patients as a
means of increasing patient choice and offering treatments that are additional to
those required to secure and maintain the patient's oral health.
E10: CPD, clinical governance, audit and peer review
Check up on the requirements for complying with the rules on keeping up to date with
your CPD, clinical governance and peer review and audit. There is also guidance on
how to select the right CPD for your needs and working out a personal development
plan.
E11: Guide To GDS in England and Wales
A comprehensive guide to the new GDS and PDS in England and Wales, this advice
sheet covers the general contracting arrangements and detailed regulations.
E12: Careers in dentistry
Dentistry provides a range of opportunities that offer work in an interesting and
challenging vocation. The profession has undergone significant change in recent
years, and more responsibility has been devolved to the dental team. The support
staff; such as dental nurses, dental hygienists and therapists and dental technicians
are known as dental care professionals (DCPs), and play an integral part in the
services provided by the modern dental practice.

Back To Top
Applies to: All
Print page
Last reviewed: 27/09/2011
PDF this page
Last updated: 24/08/2011
Search BDA
Help with searching
Advanced search
BDA keyword search
Find an event
Find press release
Find product
Login or Register
Why not also try?
BDA and Dentsply Student
Clinician Programme
Work in general dental
practice without inclusion
on a NHS list
Further information and
BDA contacts
English language testing
qualifications for
acceptance onto an NHS
performers list
History of the BDA
PCTs
Clinical Governance
PCT newsletters
Good Practice Scheme
BDA Tender training
workshops
List of BDA advice
sheets
Site Coming From: 33

British Dental Association all rights reserved. Registered office 64 Wimpole Street London W1G8YS. Limited by guarantee (14161) England

Go United Kingdom National variation Equal opportunities Privacy policy Site help Legal Accessibility
Home About Us Join BDA Contact Us Shop BDJ Library BDA Museum BDA Plus Smile 3D Mouth
List of BDA advice sheets Where am I? Home Health body PCTs
List of BDA advice sheets
BDA advice sheets cover a wide range of topics and are available free to BDA
members. Advice sheets are BDA copyright protected. They cannot be transmitted or
reproduced, without the written permission of the BDA.
A1: Planning permission
Establishing a new practice or extending an established one will usually mean
obtaining planning permission from the local authority. In some cases this is a
simple, speedy process, but often it can entail discussion, expense, delay and
frustration.
A2: Buying and selling a practice
Buying a practice is still a popular option for young dentists wishing to run their own
businesses. This advice sheet provides information on all aspects of the process.
A3: Health and safety law for general practice
One of the most widely read advice sheets; it contains everything a dentist needs to
know to comply with health and safety law. The advice sheet summarises all of the
relevant legislation and will tell you what is required.
A4: Private practice made simple: building a successful practice
Many dentists have changed the way that they practise and increased the amount of
private care which they provide. The process is not always easy and advice from
colleagues who have already reduced their dependence on the NHS has proved to be
helpful.
A5: Risk assessment in dentistry
All employers are required to carry out an assessment of the risks present in the
workplace or from work activities. This advice sheet guides you through the principles
of risk assessment in a dental context.
A6: Marketing in dentistry
Dentists must comply with General Dental Council rules on advertising and
canvassing. This advice sheet provides hints on practice promotion that have been
shown to be effective in dentistry.
A8: Employing an assistant in general practice
A growing number of practices are employing dentists as employed assistants rather
than associates. Assistantships are potentially less prone to problems than
associateships because the agreement has a basis in law and the responsibilities of
practice owner and assistant are clear.
A9: Corporate dental practice
With the growth of chains of dental practice, more dentists are considering a career
with a dental corporate body. This advice sheet discusses the legal provisions, the
opportunities offered and aspects to consider when negotiating your terms and
conditions, whether as an employee or self-employed.
A10: Partnership agreements
Dentists who choose to practise in a legally based partnership (with a sound written
partnership deed), enjoy one of the most rewarding and secure practising
arrangements.
A11: Radiation in dentistry
This advice sheet contains information on complying with radiation legislation as well
as guidelines on good radiological practice.
A12: Infection control in dentistry
Dental practices invest time and money in ensuring that they comply with infection
control guidelines. The BDA guidelines are endorsed by the General Dental Council
as being the procedures which dentists have to follow.
A13: Locumships in general dental practice
Finding and engaging a locum can be difficult and flexibility is needed in agreeing
appropriate terms.
A14: Dentists' maternity arrangements and pay.
The majority of women dentists practising in the NHS and who take maternity leave
are entitled to maternity pay.
A16: Leases and Licences
A lease is a protected right in the premises where a licence is merely permission to
use the premises. t is an important distinction not only in determining the status of
your own property rights, but also when granting someone else rights to your property.
A17: Performer agreements in England and Wales
This advice sheet provides advice for both associates and practice owners and
contains model contracts for NHS and mixed practice in England and Wales where
the practice owner holds the contract with the Primary Care Organisation or where the
associate holds the contract. A separate advice sheet (A19) covers employed
performers.
A18: Setting up in practice
One of the most exhausting and exciting projects that general dental practitioners can
enter into is setting up a brand new dental practice. Sparing the time to read the whole
advice sheet will save a lot of time in the future and prevent common mistakes.
A19: Employed performers in England and Wales
This advice sheet suggests conditions of employment for a performer dentist in
general dental practice in England and Wales, in the form of a model statement which
complies with the requirements of employment legislation.
A20: Co-operative working
Through means of an appropriate legal 'vehicle', be that a form of cooperative, limited
liability company or partnership variant, individual dentists operating as small
businesses can band together under one 'umbrella' to present a single face to
suppliers, customers and potential business partners. This advice sheet explains the
advantages, disadvantages and how to get started.
A21: Associate agreement for private practice
This advice sheet contains a model associate contract for fully private practices. The
model is designed for practices where patients pay for care on a fee-per-item basis or
through a capitation scheme or both. If you have any NHS patients at all, even if your
practice is overwhelmingly private, this model is not appropriate for you.
B1: Ethics in dentistry
The BDA provides a comprehensive advisory service on dental law and ethics. This
advice sheet gives background information on all aspects of ethics in dentistry and
complements the GDC's Maintaining Standards. It should be read by dental students
as part of their undergraduate ethics course and by new graduates confronted by the
realities of practice. More experienced practitioners use it for reference and as a
reminder of their professional responsibilities.
B2: Data protection
Dentists who hold personal identifiable information on computer or in manual records
have responsibilities under the 1998 Data Protection Act. The advice sheet helps
dentists to register correctly and answers common questions about who must
register and how to ensure that patients are given access to their records in
accordance with the law.
B3: Giving Evidence
Occasionally dentists are asked by patients or the Crown Prosecution Service to
provide a report on a patient or give evidence in court as professional or expert
witnesses. Acting as a witness can be a nerve-wracking experience and this advice
sheet will help a dentist prepare. Included are hints on court procedure, writing reports
and the fees and expenses payable for different types of witnesses.
B4: What to do when a general dental practitioner dies
Coping with bereavement is always very difficult for family and colleagues but can be
especially worrying for the family of a general dental practitioner. The immediate
problems of looking after patients, payments, keeping a practice going, appointing a
locum and eventually selling the whole or a share of a practice, all can cause worry
and stress.
B5: Dental discipline committees
Every year, a minority of NHS dentists are disciplined for an alleged breach of their
GDS Terms of Service. This process causes great stress for the practitioner and
knowledge of the procedure and how to respond is essential, even though the
dentist's defence organisation will usually manage the process and represent the
dentist. Members of Dental Discipline Committees and clinical assessors should
also be aware of the procedures that must be followed.
B6: Running your dental practice as a company or Limited Liability
Partnership
In July we expect the GDC to lift the restriction on dental practices being unable to
incorporate and run as Limited Companies or Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPS).
As a result, the BDA have produced a new advice sheet B6: Running your dental
practice as a company or Limited Liability Partnership, which explains to members the
changes that they can make to their practices, including the advantages and
disadvantages of incorporating.
B7: Practice visits
The changing nature of the NHS and new systems of clinical governance and clinical
audit have led to a new system of practice visits being introduced, to replace the old
practice inspections. Although retaining many of the characteristics of the old system,
the new regime is designed to focus particularly on providing help to dental practices
being visited as part of clinical governance as well as ensuring that health and safety
standards are maintained. An additional benefit will be that the information collected
will enable the PCT to develop a profile of the GDS in their areas that will be helpful for
local commissioning.
B9: Prescribing in general dental practice
This advice sheet describes the rules and regulations regarding dental prescribing.
B10: Handling complaints
Dealing with patient complaints is a common experience for dentists. Most
complaints result from a breakdown in communication between patient and practice
and most dentists try to resolve the problem as quickly as possible. Complaints can
also be a valuable tool in alerting practice owners to problems and helping to improve
the practice.
B11: Handling Private Complaints
This advice sheet focuses on dealing with complaints from customers in private
practice where difficulties have arisen in the past due to the lack of an official
complaints procedure. If used effectively, a simple complaints policy can become an
effective management tool and turn a dissatisfied customer into a satisfied one.
B12: Performance Concerns
At some time in your practising career, you may encounter a colleague whose work,
behaviour or activities cause you concern. You may also face a time when you feel that
your own behaviour or professional performance is putting your patients at risk. In
either situation, you should take action but do you know who can advise you and what
support is available? This advice sheet provides practical advice on what to do and
where to go for help.
C2: Collecting money from patients
Minimising bad debts is an important part of successful practice management.
Patients now expect a range of ways to pay for their dental care, including credit and
debit cards and credit agreements.
C3: Business plans
Business plans may be used for a variety of purposes including starting or
purchasing a practice, developing the practice and improving financial performance.
The advice sheet provides guidance on preparing a business plan for an existing and
a new practice and emphasises what should be included. Also included is help with
cashflow forecasting and analysing the practice's performance.
C4 Private dental plans
This advice sheet comes in two parts. The first section introduces the general
principles of private dental plans and will help you identify the areas you need to
consider when choosing and implementing a private dental plan. The second section
describes the main features of the major schemes and is updated approximately
every 12-months.
C6: Financial management in general dental practice
Effective financial management is crucial for the success of a practice and this advice
sheet explains the roles of cashflow forecasting, income, stock and expenditure
control, as well as the balance sheet, profit and loss and capital accounts and helps
you understand their formats and what they tell you.
C7: Superannuation in the GDS
The updated version will be available shortly. Please email if you would like a copy
emailed to you as soon as it is available - Please state the advice sheet required in
the subject. C7 describes the main elements of the NHS Pension Scheme as it
applies to general dental practitioners. It covers eligibility for membership of the
scheme, contributions and benefits. Outline information is provided on retirement age,
early retirement and returning to work after taking retirement.
C8: Fee setting in private dental practice
Setting private fees can be a difficult process and the most common approach is
pirating someone else's because you feel that if yours are broadly similar you will be
offering the "market rate". However the fees charged may not cover your overheads or
ensure profitability or reflect the time or complexity of the treatment.
C9: In-practice capitation schemes
Many dentists and patients alike benefit from private capitation payment schemes.
For dentists, it offers an element of financial stability and practice growth.
D1: Contracts of employment
As well as being a legal requirement, it is good management practice to give
employees a written statement of their main terms and conditions of employment.
This statement forms part of an employee's contract of employment (which is
everything that has been agreed between employer and employee). The advice sheet
contains a model BDA contract for staff in general dental practice and includes the
BDA's recommendations on sickness and holiday pay.
D2: Rewarding staff
The publication of this advice follows the discontinuation of the annual minimum pay
recommendations for professionals complementary to dentistry (PCDs) which the
BDA issued up until 2007.
D3: Employment of dental hygienists
This advice sheets contains a contract of employment for dental hygienists in general
dental practice (which should not be used for those working under self-employed
contracts for services). Also included is information on the duties that dental
hygienists are currently permitted to perform. Dental hygienists' employment status is
also covered but up to date advice should be sought from the BDA if a self-employed
contract is envisaged.
D5 Working with dental therapists in general dental practice
Dental therapists are now able to work in general practice and have much to offer
practices looking to develop their skill range and services available to patients.
Developed with the British Association of Dental Therapists, this advice sheet
explains what a therapist can do and how they can contribute to the team.
D9: Employees' family arrangements and pay
For a small business, a member of staff going on maternity leave can cause
disruptions. The law relating to maternity leave and pay is complex and female
employees enjoy special protection against being dismissed or suffering any
discrimination or detriment because they are pregnant.
D10: Redundancy
This advice sheet provides a clear explanation of the procedure to be undertaken in
selecting an employee for redundancy to ensure that the process is fair.
D11: Practice disciplinary procedures and dismissal
Unfair dismissal proceedings by employees can be extremely expensive and
stressful. Dismissing an employee must be for a fair reason and use a fair procedure
and this advice sheet explains what this means in practice.
D12: Staff recruitment
Making the right choice when recruiting a new member of staff makes financial and
business sense. The recruitment process is also covered by discrimination
legislation and employers should be able to demonstrate that they chose the best
person for the job regardless of race, sex or disability.
D13: Discrimination
Discrimination law is wide ranging and covers employees and self-employed
contractors such as associates and dental hygienists. This advice sheet describes
the scope of the legislation and the actions by employers that might be considered to
be discriminatory.
D14: Violence at work
Coping with abusive or threatening patients is a common part of dental practice.
There are ways in which dentists can protect themselves and their staff by taking
sensible precautions. The advice sheet brings together information on personal
security and applies it to the dental context.
D15: Self-empIoyed hygienists
Many dental hygienists in general dental practices are engaged as self-employed
contractors but this can lead to serious problems with the DSS, the Inland Revenue
and industrial tribunals. This advice sheet considers the characteristics of self-
employed status and provides a contract for services that could be used as a basis of
an agreement between dental hygienist and dental practice.
D16 Tackling harassment by patients
Harassment is: unwanted, unreasonable and offensive behaviour; and behaviour that
creates fear, demoralisation and humiliation and a hostile or ineffective working
environment. A complaints procedure is also included in this advice sheet.
D17 Practice grievance procedures
Employers must operate a grievance procedure for their employees. The advice sheet
provides information on dealing with grievances, a suggested model procedure,
model letters and penalties if the grievance procedure is not used.
E1: Working abroad
This advice sheet covers working in Europe and other countries where UK dental
qualifications are accepted.
E6: Treating overseas patients
This advice sheet provides guidance on how to register a patient from overseas under
the General Dental Services.
E7: A guide to GDS regulations
This advice sheet provides the first comprehensive introduction to GDS rules and
regulations. The Regulations are open to interpretation and the advice sheet gives the
BDA's view on their meaning.
E8: Private care for NHS patients
Dentists are able to offer private dental care to their registered NHS patients as a
means of increasing patient choice and offering treatments that are additional to
those required to secure and maintain the patient's oral health.
E10: CPD, clinical governance, audit and peer review
Check up on the requirements for complying with the rules on keeping up to date with
your CPD, clinical governance and peer review and audit. There is also guidance on
how to select the right CPD for your needs and working out a personal development
plan.
E11: Guide To GDS in England and Wales
A comprehensive guide to the new GDS and PDS in England and Wales, this advice
sheet covers the general contracting arrangements and detailed regulations.
E12: Careers in dentistry
Dentistry provides a range of opportunities that offer work in an interesting and
challenging vocation. The profession has undergone significant change in recent
years, and more responsibility has been devolved to the dental team. The support
staff; such as dental nurses, dental hygienists and therapists and dental technicians
are known as dental care professionals (DCPs), and play an integral part in the
services provided by the modern dental practice.

Back To Top
Applies to: All
Print page
Last reviewed: 27/09/2011
PDF this page
Last updated: 24/08/2011
Search BDA
Help with searching
Advanced search
BDA keyword search
Find an event
Find press release
Find product
Login or Register
Why not also try?
BDA and Dentsply Student
Clinician Programme
Work in general dental
practice without inclusion
on a NHS list
Further information and
BDA contacts
English language testing
qualifications for
acceptance onto an NHS
performers list
History of the BDA
PCTs
Clinical Governance
PCT newsletters
Good Practice Scheme
BDA Tender training
workshops
List of BDA advice
sheets
Site Coming From: 33

British Dental Association all rights reserved. Registered office 64 Wimpole Street London W1G8YS. Limited by guarantee (14161) England

Go United Kingdom National variation Equal opportunities Privacy policy Site help Legal Accessibility
Home About Us Join BDA Contact Us Shop BDJ Library BDA Museum BDA Plus Smile 3D Mouth
List of BDA advice sheets Where am I? Home Health body PCTs
List of BDA advice sheets
BDA advice sheets cover a wide range of topics and are available free to BDA
members. Advice sheets are BDA copyright protected. They cannot be transmitted or
reproduced, without the written permission of the BDA.
A1: Planning permission
Establishing a new practice or extending an established one will usually mean
obtaining planning permission from the local authority. In some cases this is a
simple, speedy process, but often it can entail discussion, expense, delay and
frustration.
A2: Buying and selling a practice
Buying a practice is still a popular option for young dentists wishing to run their own
businesses. This advice sheet provides information on all aspects of the process.
A3: Health and safety law for general practice
One of the most widely read advice sheets; it contains everything a dentist needs to
know to comply with health and safety law. The advice sheet summarises all of the
relevant legislation and will tell you what is required.
A4: Private practice made simple: building a successful practice
Many dentists have changed the way that they practise and increased the amount of
private care which they provide. The process is not always easy and advice from
colleagues who have already reduced their dependence on the NHS has proved to be
helpful.
A5: Risk assessment in dentistry
All employers are required to carry out an assessment of the risks present in the
workplace or from work activities. This advice sheet guides you through the principles
of risk assessment in a dental context.
A6: Marketing in dentistry
Dentists must comply with General Dental Council rules on advertising and
canvassing. This advice sheet provides hints on practice promotion that have been
shown to be effective in dentistry.
A8: Employing an assistant in general practice
A growing number of practices are employing dentists as employed assistants rather
than associates. Assistantships are potentially less prone to problems than
associateships because the agreement has a basis in law and the responsibilities of
practice owner and assistant are clear.
A9: Corporate dental practice
With the growth of chains of dental practice, more dentists are considering a career
with a dental corporate body. This advice sheet discusses the legal provisions, the
opportunities offered and aspects to consider when negotiating your terms and
conditions, whether as an employee or self-employed.
A10: Partnership agreements
Dentists who choose to practise in a legally based partnership (with a sound written
partnership deed), enjoy one of the most rewarding and secure practising
arrangements.
A11: Radiation in dentistry
This advice sheet contains information on complying with radiation legislation as well
as guidelines on good radiological practice.
A12: Infection control in dentistry
Dental practices invest time and money in ensuring that they comply with infection
control guidelines. The BDA guidelines are endorsed by the General Dental Council
as being the procedures which dentists have to follow.
A13: Locumships in general dental practice
Finding and engaging a locum can be difficult and flexibility is needed in agreeing
appropriate terms.
A14: Dentists' maternity arrangements and pay.
The majority of women dentists practising in the NHS and who take maternity leave
are entitled to maternity pay.
A16: Leases and Licences
A lease is a protected right in the premises where a licence is merely permission to
use the premises. t is an important distinction not only in determining the status of
your own property rights, but also when granting someone else rights to your property.
A17: Performer agreements in England and Wales
This advice sheet provides advice for both associates and practice owners and
contains model contracts for NHS and mixed practice in England and Wales where
the practice owner holds the contract with the Primary Care Organisation or where the
associate holds the contract. A separate advice sheet (A19) covers employed
performers.
A18: Setting up in practice
One of the most exhausting and exciting projects that general dental practitioners can
enter into is setting up a brand new dental practice. Sparing the time to read the whole
advice sheet will save a lot of time in the future and prevent common mistakes.
A19: Employed performers in England and Wales
This advice sheet suggests conditions of employment for a performer dentist in
general dental practice in England and Wales, in the form of a model statement which
complies with the requirements of employment legislation.
A20: Co-operative working
Through means of an appropriate legal 'vehicle', be that a form of cooperative, limited
liability company or partnership variant, individual dentists operating as small
businesses can band together under one 'umbrella' to present a single face to
suppliers, customers and potential business partners. This advice sheet explains the
advantages, disadvantages and how to get started.
A21: Associate agreement for private practice
This advice sheet contains a model associate contract for fully private practices. The
model is designed for practices where patients pay for care on a fee-per-item basis or
through a capitation scheme or both. If you have any NHS patients at all, even if your
practice is overwhelmingly private, this model is not appropriate for you.
B1: Ethics in dentistry
The BDA provides a comprehensive advisory service on dental law and ethics. This
advice sheet gives background information on all aspects of ethics in dentistry and
complements the GDC's Maintaining Standards. It should be read by dental students
as part of their undergraduate ethics course and by new graduates confronted by the
realities of practice. More experienced practitioners use it for reference and as a
reminder of their professional responsibilities.
B2: Data protection
Dentists who hold personal identifiable information on computer or in manual records
have responsibilities under the 1998 Data Protection Act. The advice sheet helps
dentists to register correctly and answers common questions about who must
register and how to ensure that patients are given access to their records in
accordance with the law.
B3: Giving Evidence
Occasionally dentists are asked by patients or the Crown Prosecution Service to
provide a report on a patient or give evidence in court as professional or expert
witnesses. Acting as a witness can be a nerve-wracking experience and this advice
sheet will help a dentist prepare. Included are hints on court procedure, writing reports
and the fees and expenses payable for different types of witnesses.
B4: What to do when a general dental practitioner dies
Coping with bereavement is always very difficult for family and colleagues but can be
especially worrying for the family of a general dental practitioner. The immediate
problems of looking after patients, payments, keeping a practice going, appointing a
locum and eventually selling the whole or a share of a practice, all can cause worry
and stress.
B5: Dental discipline committees
Every year, a minority of NHS dentists are disciplined for an alleged breach of their
GDS Terms of Service. This process causes great stress for the practitioner and
knowledge of the procedure and how to respond is essential, even though the
dentist's defence organisation will usually manage the process and represent the
dentist. Members of Dental Discipline Committees and clinical assessors should
also be aware of the procedures that must be followed.
B6: Running your dental practice as a company or Limited Liability
Partnership
In July we expect the GDC to lift the restriction on dental practices being unable to
incorporate and run as Limited Companies or Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPS).
As a result, the BDA have produced a new advice sheet B6: Running your dental
practice as a company or Limited Liability Partnership, which explains to members the
changes that they can make to their practices, including the advantages and
disadvantages of incorporating.
B7: Practice visits
The changing nature of the NHS and new systems of clinical governance and clinical
audit have led to a new system of practice visits being introduced, to replace the old
practice inspections. Although retaining many of the characteristics of the old system,
the new regime is designed to focus particularly on providing help to dental practices
being visited as part of clinical governance as well as ensuring that health and safety
standards are maintained. An additional benefit will be that the information collected
will enable the PCT to develop a profile of the GDS in their areas that will be helpful for
local commissioning.
B9: Prescribing in general dental practice
This advice sheet describes the rules and regulations regarding dental prescribing.
B10: Handling complaints
Dealing with patient complaints is a common experience for dentists. Most
complaints result from a breakdown in communication between patient and practice
and most dentists try to resolve the problem as quickly as possible. Complaints can
also be a valuable tool in alerting practice owners to problems and helping to improve
the practice.
B11: Handling Private Complaints
This advice sheet focuses on dealing with complaints from customers in private
practice where difficulties have arisen in the past due to the lack of an official
complaints procedure. If used effectively, a simple complaints policy can become an
effective management tool and turn a dissatisfied customer into a satisfied one.
B12: Performance Concerns
At some time in your practising career, you may encounter a colleague whose work,
behaviour or activities cause you concern. You may also face a time when you feel that
your own behaviour or professional performance is putting your patients at risk. In
either situation, you should take action but do you know who can advise you and what
support is available? This advice sheet provides practical advice on what to do and
where to go for help.
C2: Collecting money from patients
Minimising bad debts is an important part of successful practice management.
Patients now expect a range of ways to pay for their dental care, including credit and
debit cards and credit agreements.
C3: Business plans
Business plans may be used for a variety of purposes including starting or
purchasing a practice, developing the practice and improving financial performance.
The advice sheet provides guidance on preparing a business plan for an existing and
a new practice and emphasises what should be included. Also included is help with
cashflow forecasting and analysing the practice's performance.
C4 Private dental plans
This advice sheet comes in two parts. The first section introduces the general
principles of private dental plans and will help you identify the areas you need to
consider when choosing and implementing a private dental plan. The second section
describes the main features of the major schemes and is updated approximately
every 12-months.
C6: Financial management in general dental practice
Effective financial management is crucial for the success of a practice and this advice
sheet explains the roles of cashflow forecasting, income, stock and expenditure
control, as well as the balance sheet, profit and loss and capital accounts and helps
you understand their formats and what they tell you.
C7: Superannuation in the GDS
The updated version will be available shortly. Please email if you would like a copy
emailed to you as soon as it is available - Please state the advice sheet required in
the subject. C7 describes the main elements of the NHS Pension Scheme as it
applies to general dental practitioners. It covers eligibility for membership of the
scheme, contributions and benefits. Outline information is provided on retirement age,
early retirement and returning to work after taking retirement.
C8: Fee setting in private dental practice
Setting private fees can be a difficult process and the most common approach is
pirating someone else's because you feel that if yours are broadly similar you will be
offering the "market rate". However the fees charged may not cover your overheads or
ensure profitability or reflect the time or complexity of the treatment.
C9: In-practice capitation schemes
Many dentists and patients alike benefit from private capitation payment schemes.
For dentists, it offers an element of financial stability and practice growth.
D1: Contracts of employment
As well as being a legal requirement, it is good management practice to give
employees a written statement of their main terms and conditions of employment.
This statement forms part of an employee's contract of employment (which is
everything that has been agreed between employer and employee). The advice sheet
contains a model BDA contract for staff in general dental practice and includes the
BDA's recommendations on sickness and holiday pay.
D2: Rewarding staff
The publication of this advice follows the discontinuation of the annual minimum pay
recommendations for professionals complementary to dentistry (PCDs) which the
BDA issued up until 2007.
D3: Employment of dental hygienists
This advice sheets contains a contract of employment for dental hygienists in general
dental practice (which should not be used for those working under self-employed
contracts for services). Also included is information on the duties that dental
hygienists are currently permitted to perform. Dental hygienists' employment status is
also covered but up to date advice should be sought from the BDA if a self-employed
contract is envisaged.
D5 Working with dental therapists in general dental practice
Dental therapists are now able to work in general practice and have much to offer
practices looking to develop their skill range and services available to patients.
Developed with the British Association of Dental Therapists, this advice sheet
explains what a therapist can do and how they can contribute to the team.
D9: Employees' family arrangements and pay
For a small business, a member of staff going on maternity leave can cause
disruptions. The law relating to maternity leave and pay is complex and female
employees enjoy special protection against being dismissed or suffering any
discrimination or detriment because they are pregnant.
D10: Redundancy
This advice sheet provides a clear explanation of the procedure to be undertaken in
selecting an employee for redundancy to ensure that the process is fair.
D11: Practice disciplinary procedures and dismissal
Unfair dismissal proceedings by employees can be extremely expensive and
stressful. Dismissing an employee must be for a fair reason and use a fair procedure
and this advice sheet explains what this means in practice.
D12: Staff recruitment
Making the right choice when recruiting a new member of staff makes financial and
business sense. The recruitment process is also covered by discrimination
legislation and employers should be able to demonstrate that they chose the best
person for the job regardless of race, sex or disability.
D13: Discrimination
Discrimination law is wide ranging and covers employees and self-employed
contractors such as associates and dental hygienists. This advice sheet describes
the scope of the legislation and the actions by employers that might be considered to
be discriminatory.
D14: Violence at work
Coping with abusive or threatening patients is a common part of dental practice.
There are ways in which dentists can protect themselves and their staff by taking
sensible precautions. The advice sheet brings together information on personal
security and applies it to the dental context.
D15: Self-empIoyed hygienists
Many dental hygienists in general dental practices are engaged as self-employed
contractors but this can lead to serious problems with the DSS, the Inland Revenue
and industrial tribunals. This advice sheet considers the characteristics of self-
employed status and provides a contract for services that could be used as a basis of
an agreement between dental hygienist and dental practice.
D16 Tackling harassment by patients
Harassment is: unwanted, unreasonable and offensive behaviour; and behaviour that
creates fear, demoralisation and humiliation and a hostile or ineffective working
environment. A complaints procedure is also included in this advice sheet.
D17 Practice grievance procedures
Employers must operate a grievance procedure for their employees. The advice sheet
provides information on dealing with grievances, a suggested model procedure,
model letters and penalties if the grievance procedure is not used.
E1: Working abroad
This advice sheet covers working in Europe and other countries where UK dental
qualifications are accepted.
E6: Treating overseas patients
This advice sheet provides guidance on how to register a patient from overseas under
the General Dental Services.
E7: A guide to GDS regulations
This advice sheet provides the first comprehensive introduction to GDS rules and
regulations. The Regulations are open to interpretation and the advice sheet gives the
BDA's view on their meaning.
E8: Private care for NHS patients
Dentists are able to offer private dental care to their registered NHS patients as a
means of increasing patient choice and offering treatments that are additional to
those required to secure and maintain the patient's oral health.
E10: CPD, clinical governance, audit and peer review
Check up on the requirements for complying with the rules on keeping up to date with
your CPD, clinical governance and peer review and audit. There is also guidance on
how to select the right CPD for your needs and working out a personal development
plan.
E11: Guide To GDS in England and Wales
A comprehensive guide to the new GDS and PDS in England and Wales, this advice
sheet covers the general contracting arrangements and detailed regulations.
E12: Careers in dentistry
Dentistry provides a range of opportunities that offer work in an interesting and
challenging vocation. The profession has undergone significant change in recent
years, and more responsibility has been devolved to the dental team. The support
staff; such as dental nurses, dental hygienists and therapists and dental technicians
are known as dental care professionals (DCPs), and play an integral part in the
services provided by the modern dental practice.

Back To Top
Applies to: All
Print page
Last reviewed: 27/09/2011
PDF this page
Last updated: 24/08/2011
Search BDA
Help with searching
Advanced search
BDA keyword search
Find an event
Find press release
Find product
Login or Register
Why not also try?
BDA and Dentsply Student
Clinician Programme
Work in general dental
practice without inclusion
on a NHS list
Further information and
BDA contacts
English language testing
qualifications for
acceptance onto an NHS
performers list
History of the BDA
PCTs
Clinical Governance
PCT newsletters
Good Practice Scheme
BDA Tender training
workshops
List of BDA advice
sheets
Site Coming From: 33

British Dental Association all rights reserved. Registered office 64 Wimpole Street London W1G8YS. Limited by guarantee (14161) England

Go United Kingdom National variation Equal opportunities Privacy policy Site help Legal Accessibility
Home About Us Join BDA Contact Us Shop BDJ Library BDA Museum BDA Plus Smile 3D Mouth
List of BDA advice sheets Where am I? Home Health body PCTs
List of BDA advice sheets
BDA advice sheets cover a wide range of topics and are available free to BDA
members. Advice sheets are BDA copyright protected. They cannot be transmitted or
reproduced, without the written permission of the BDA.
A1: Planning permission
Establishing a new practice or extending an established one will usually mean
obtaining planning permission from the local authority. In some cases this is a
simple, speedy process, but often it can entail discussion, expense, delay and
frustration.
A2: Buying and selling a practice
Buying a practice is still a popular option for young dentists wishing to run their own
businesses. This advice sheet provides information on all aspects of the process.
A3: Health and safety law for general practice
One of the most widely read advice sheets; it contains everything a dentist needs to
know to comply with health and safety law. The advice sheet summarises all of the
relevant legislation and will tell you what is required.
A4: Private practice made simple: building a successful practice
Many dentists have changed the way that they practise and increased the amount of
private care which they provide. The process is not always easy and advice from
colleagues who have already reduced their dependence on the NHS has proved to be
helpful.
A5: Risk assessment in dentistry
All employers are required to carry out an assessment of the risks present in the
workplace or from work activities. This advice sheet guides you through the principles
of risk assessment in a dental context.
A6: Marketing in dentistry
Dentists must comply with General Dental Council rules on advertising and
canvassing. This advice sheet provides hints on practice promotion that have been
shown to be effective in dentistry.
A8: Employing an assistant in general practice
A growing number of practices are employing dentists as employed assistants rather
than associates. Assistantships are potentially less prone to problems than
associateships because the agreement has a basis in law and the responsibilities of
practice owner and assistant are clear.
A9: Corporate dental practice
With the growth of chains of dental practice, more dentists are considering a career
with a dental corporate body. This advice sheet discusses the legal provisions, the
opportunities offered and aspects to consider when negotiating your terms and
conditions, whether as an employee or self-employed.
A10: Partnership agreements
Dentists who choose to practise in a legally based partnership (with a sound written
partnership deed), enjoy one of the most rewarding and secure practising
arrangements.
A11: Radiation in dentistry
This advice sheet contains information on complying with radiation legislation as well
as guidelines on good radiological practice.
A12: Infection control in dentistry
Dental practices invest time and money in ensuring that they comply with infection
control guidelines. The BDA guidelines are endorsed by the General Dental Council
as being the procedures which dentists have to follow.
A13: Locumships in general dental practice
Finding and engaging a locum can be difficult and flexibility is needed in agreeing
appropriate terms.
A14: Dentists' maternity arrangements and pay.
The majority of women dentists practising in the NHS and who take maternity leave
are entitled to maternity pay.
A16: Leases and Licences
A lease is a protected right in the premises where a licence is merely permission to
use the premises. t is an important distinction not only in determining the status of
your own property rights, but also when granting someone else rights to your property.
A17: Performer agreements in England and Wales
This advice sheet provides advice for both associates and practice owners and
contains model contracts for NHS and mixed practice in England and Wales where
the practice owner holds the contract with the Primary Care Organisation or where the
associate holds the contract. A separate advice sheet (A19) covers employed
performers.
A18: Setting up in practice
One of the most exhausting and exciting projects that general dental practitioners can
enter into is setting up a brand new dental practice. Sparing the time to read the whole
advice sheet will save a lot of time in the future and prevent common mistakes.
A19: Employed performers in England and Wales
This advice sheet suggests conditions of employment for a performer dentist in
general dental practice in England and Wales, in the form of a model statement which
complies with the requirements of employment legislation.
A20: Co-operative working
Through means of an appropriate legal 'vehicle', be that a form of cooperative, limited
liability company or partnership variant, individual dentists operating as small
businesses can band together under one 'umbrella' to present a single face to
suppliers, customers and potential business partners. This advice sheet explains the
advantages, disadvantages and how to get started.
A21: Associate agreement for private practice
This advice sheet contains a model associate contract for fully private practices. The
model is designed for practices where patients pay for care on a fee-per-item basis or
through a capitation scheme or both. If you have any NHS patients at all, even if your
practice is overwhelmingly private, this model is not appropriate for you.
B1: Ethics in dentistry
The BDA provides a comprehensive advisory service on dental law and ethics. This
advice sheet gives background information on all aspects of ethics in dentistry and
complements the GDC's Maintaining Standards. It should be read by dental students
as part of their undergraduate ethics course and by new graduates confronted by the
realities of practice. More experienced practitioners use it for reference and as a
reminder of their professional responsibilities.
B2: Data protection
Dentists who hold personal identifiable information on computer or in manual records
have responsibilities under the 1998 Data Protection Act. The advice sheet helps
dentists to register correctly and answers common questions about who must
register and how to ensure that patients are given access to their records in
accordance with the law.
B3: Giving Evidence
Occasionally dentists are asked by patients or the Crown Prosecution Service to
provide a report on a patient or give evidence in court as professional or expert
witnesses. Acting as a witness can be a nerve-wracking experience and this advice
sheet will help a dentist prepare. Included are hints on court procedure, writing reports
and the fees and expenses payable for different types of witnesses.
B4: What to do when a general dental practitioner dies
Coping with bereavement is always very difficult for family and colleagues but can be
especially worrying for the family of a general dental practitioner. The immediate
problems of looking after patients, payments, keeping a practice going, appointing a
locum and eventually selling the whole or a share of a practice, all can cause worry
and stress.
B5: Dental discipline committees
Every year, a minority of NHS dentists are disciplined for an alleged breach of their
GDS Terms of Service. This process causes great stress for the practitioner and
knowledge of the procedure and how to respond is essential, even though the
dentist's defence organisation will usually manage the process and represent the
dentist. Members of Dental Discipline Committees and clinical assessors should
also be aware of the procedures that must be followed.
B6: Running your dental practice as a company or Limited Liability
Partnership
In July we expect the GDC to lift the restriction on dental practices being unable to
incorporate and run as Limited Companies or Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPS).
As a result, the BDA have produced a new advice sheet B6: Running your dental
practice as a company or Limited Liability Partnership, which explains to members the
changes that they can make to their practices, including the advantages and
disadvantages of incorporating.
B7: Practice visits
The changing nature of the NHS and new systems of clinical governance and clinical
audit have led to a new system of practice visits being introduced, to replace the old
practice inspections. Although retaining many of the characteristics of the old system,
the new regime is designed to focus particularly on providing help to dental practices
being visited as part of clinical governance as well as ensuring that health and safety
standards are maintained. An additional benefit will be that the information collected
will enable the PCT to develop a profile of the GDS in their areas that will be helpful for
local commissioning.
B9: Prescribing in general dental practice
This advice sheet describes the rules and regulations regarding dental prescribing.
B10: Handling complaints
Dealing with patient complaints is a common experience for dentists. Most
complaints result from a breakdown in communication between patient and practice
and most dentists try to resolve the problem as quickly as possible. Complaints can
also be a valuable tool in alerting practice owners to problems and helping to improve
the practice.
B11: Handling Private Complaints
This advice sheet focuses on dealing with complaints from customers in private
practice where difficulties have arisen in the past due to the lack of an official
complaints procedure. If used effectively, a simple complaints policy can become an
effective management tool and turn a dissatisfied customer into a satisfied one.
B12: Performance Concerns
At some time in your practising career, you may encounter a colleague whose work,
behaviour or activities cause you concern. You may also face a time when you feel that
your own behaviour or professional performance is putting your patients at risk. In
either situation, you should take action but do you know who can advise you and what
support is available? This advice sheet provides practical advice on what to do and
where to go for help.
C2: Collecting money from patients
Minimising bad debts is an important part of successful practice management.
Patients now expect a range of ways to pay for their dental care, including credit and
debit cards and credit agreements.
C3: Business plans
Business plans may be used for a variety of purposes including starting or
purchasing a practice, developing the practice and improving financial performance.
The advice sheet provides guidance on preparing a business plan for an existing and
a new practice and emphasises what should be included. Also included is help with
cashflow forecasting and analysing the practice's performance.
C4 Private dental plans
This advice sheet comes in two parts. The first section introduces the general
principles of private dental plans and will help you identify the areas you need to
consider when choosing and implementing a private dental plan. The second section
describes the main features of the major schemes and is updated approximately
every 12-months.
C6: Financial management in general dental practice
Effective financial management is crucial for the success of a practice and this advice
sheet explains the roles of cashflow forecasting, income, stock and expenditure
control, as well as the balance sheet, profit and loss and capital accounts and helps
you understand their formats and what they tell you.
C7: Superannuation in the GDS
The updated version will be available shortly. Please email if you would like a copy
emailed to you as soon as it is available - Please state the advice sheet required in
the subject. C7 describes the main elements of the NHS Pension Scheme as it
applies to general dental practitioners. It covers eligibility for membership of the
scheme, contributions and benefits. Outline information is provided on retirement age,
early retirement and returning to work after taking retirement.
C8: Fee setting in private dental practice
Setting private fees can be a difficult process and the most common approach is
pirating someone else's because you feel that if yours are broadly similar you will be
offering the "market rate". However the fees charged may not cover your overheads or
ensure profitability or reflect the time or complexity of the treatment.
C9: In-practice capitation schemes
Many dentists and patients alike benefit from private capitation payment schemes.
For dentists, it offers an element of financial stability and practice growth.
D1: Contracts of employment
As well as being a legal requirement, it is good management practice to give
employees a written statement of their main terms and conditions of employment.
This statement forms part of an employee's contract of employment (which is
everything that has been agreed between employer and employee). The advice sheet
contains a model BDA contract for staff in general dental practice and includes the
BDA's recommendations on sickness and holiday pay.
D2: Rewarding staff
The publication of this advice follows the discontinuation of the annual minimum pay
recommendations for professionals complementary to dentistry (PCDs) which the
BDA issued up until 2007.
D3: Employment of dental hygienists
This advice sheets contains a contract of employment for dental hygienists in general
dental practice (which should not be used for those working under self-employed
contracts for services). Also included is information on the duties that dental
hygienists are currently permitted to perform. Dental hygienists' employment status is
also covered but up to date advice should be sought from the BDA if a self-employed
contract is envisaged.
D5 Working with dental therapists in general dental practice
Dental therapists are now able to work in general practice and have much to offer
practices looking to develop their skill range and services available to patients.
Developed with the British Association of Dental Therapists, this advice sheet
explains what a therapist can do and how they can contribute to the team.
D9: Employees' family arrangements and pay
For a small business, a member of staff going on maternity leave can cause
disruptions. The law relating to maternity leave and pay is complex and female
employees enjoy special protection against being dismissed or suffering any
discrimination or detriment because they are pregnant.
D10: Redundancy
This advice sheet provides a clear explanation of the procedure to be undertaken in
selecting an employee for redundancy to ensure that the process is fair.
D11: Practice disciplinary procedures and dismissal
Unfair dismissal proceedings by employees can be extremely expensive and
stressful. Dismissing an employee must be for a fair reason and use a fair procedure
and this advice sheet explains what this means in practice.
D12: Staff recruitment
Making the right choice when recruiting a new member of staff makes financial and
business sense. The recruitment process is also covered by discrimination
legislation and employers should be able to demonstrate that they chose the best
person for the job regardless of race, sex or disability.
D13: Discrimination
Discrimination law is wide ranging and covers employees and self-employed
contractors such as associates and dental hygienists. This advice sheet describes
the scope of the legislation and the actions by employers that might be considered to
be discriminatory.
D14: Violence at work
Coping with abusive or threatening patients is a common part of dental practice.
There are ways in which dentists can protect themselves and their staff by taking
sensible precautions. The advice sheet brings together information on personal
security and applies it to the dental context.
D15: Self-empIoyed hygienists
Many dental hygienists in general dental practices are engaged as self-employed
contractors but this can lead to serious problems with the DSS, the Inland Revenue
and industrial tribunals. This advice sheet considers the characteristics of self-
employed status and provides a contract for services that could be used as a basis of
an agreement between dental hygienist and dental practice.
D16 Tackling harassment by patients
Harassment is: unwanted, unreasonable and offensive behaviour; and behaviour that
creates fear, demoralisation and humiliation and a hostile or ineffective working
environment. A complaints procedure is also included in this advice sheet.
D17 Practice grievance procedures
Employers must operate a grievance procedure for their employees. The advice sheet
provides information on dealing with grievances, a suggested model procedure,
model letters and penalties if the grievance procedure is not used.
E1: Working abroad
This advice sheet covers working in Europe and other countries where UK dental
qualifications are accepted.
E6: Treating overseas patients
This advice sheet provides guidance on how to register a patient from overseas under
the General Dental Services.
E7: A guide to GDS regulations
This advice sheet provides the first comprehensive introduction to GDS rules and
regulations. The Regulations are open to interpretation and the advice sheet gives the
BDA's view on their meaning.
E8: Private care for NHS patients
Dentists are able to offer private dental care to their registered NHS patients as a
means of increasing patient choice and offering treatments that are additional to
those required to secure and maintain the patient's oral health.
E10: CPD, clinical governance, audit and peer review
Check up on the requirements for complying with the rules on keeping up to date with
your CPD, clinical governance and peer review and audit. There is also guidance on
how to select the right CPD for your needs and working out a personal development
plan.
E11: Guide To GDS in England and Wales
A comprehensive guide to the new GDS and PDS in England and Wales, this advice
sheet covers the general contracting arrangements and detailed regulations.
E12: Careers in dentistry
Dentistry provides a range of opportunities that offer work in an interesting and
challenging vocation. The profession has undergone significant change in recent
years, and more responsibility has been devolved to the dental team. The support
staff; such as dental nurses, dental hygienists and therapists and dental technicians
are known as dental care professionals (DCPs), and play an integral part in the
services provided by the modern dental practice.

Back To Top
Applies to: All
Print page
Last reviewed: 27/09/2011
PDF this page
Last updated: 24/08/2011
Search BDA
Help with searching
Advanced search
BDA keyword search
Find an event
Find press release
Find product
Login or Register
Why not also try?
BDA and Dentsply Student
Clinician Programme
Work in general dental
practice without inclusion
on a NHS list
Further information and
BDA contacts
English language testing
qualifications for
acceptance onto an NHS
performers list
History of the BDA
PCTs
Clinical Governance
PCT newsletters
Good Practice Scheme
BDA Tender training
workshops
List of BDA advice
sheets
Site Coming From: 33

British Dental Association all rights reserved. Registered office 64 Wimpole Street London W1G8YS. Limited by guarantee (14161) England

Go United Kingdom National variation Equal opportunities Privacy policy Site help Legal Accessibility
Home About Us Join BDA Contact Us Shop BDJ Library BDA Museum BDA Plus Smile 3D Mouth
List of BDA advice sheets Where am I? Home Health body PCTs
List of BDA advice sheets
BDA advice sheets cover a wide range of topics and are available free to BDA
members. Advice sheets are BDA copyright protected. They cannot be transmitted or
reproduced, without the written permission of the BDA.
A1: Planning permission
Establishing a new practice or extending an established one will usually mean
obtaining planning permission from the local authority. In some cases this is a
simple, speedy process, but often it can entail discussion, expense, delay and
frustration.
A2: Buying and selling a practice
Buying a practice is still a popular option for young dentists wishing to run their own
businesses. This advice sheet provides information on all aspects of the process.
A3: Health and safety law for general practice
One of the most widely read advice sheets; it contains everything a dentist needs to
know to comply with health and safety law. The advice sheet summarises all of the
relevant legislation and will tell you what is required.
A4: Private practice made simple: building a successful practice
Many dentists have changed the way that they practise and increased the amount of
private care which they provide. The process is not always easy and advice from
colleagues who have already reduced their dependence on the NHS has proved to be
helpful.
A5: Risk assessment in dentistry
All employers are required to carry out an assessment of the risks present in the
workplace or from work activities. This advice sheet guides you through the principles
of risk assessment in a dental context.
A6: Marketing in dentistry
Dentists must comply with General Dental Council rules on advertising and
canvassing. This advice sheet provides hints on practice promotion that have been
shown to be effective in dentistry.
A8: Employing an assistant in general practice
A growing number of practices are employing dentists as employed assistants rather
than associates. Assistantships are potentially less prone to problems than
associateships because the agreement has a basis in law and the responsibilities of
practice owner and assistant are clear.
A9: Corporate dental practice
With the growth of chains of dental practice, more dentists are considering a career
with a dental corporate body. This advice sheet discusses the legal provisions, the
opportunities offered and aspects to consider when negotiating your terms and
conditions, whether as an employee or self-employed.
A10: Partnership agreements
Dentists who choose to practise in a legally based partnership (with a sound written
partnership deed), enjoy one of the most rewarding and secure practising
arrangements.
A11: Radiation in dentistry
This advice sheet contains information on complying with radiation legislation as well
as guidelines on good radiological practice.
A12: Infection control in dentistry
Dental practices invest time and money in ensuring that they comply with infection
control guidelines. The BDA guidelines are endorsed by the General Dental Council
as being the procedures which dentists have to follow.
A13: Locumships in general dental practice
Finding and engaging a locum can be difficult and flexibility is needed in agreeing
appropriate terms.
A14: Dentists' maternity arrangements and pay.
The majority of women dentists practising in the NHS and who take maternity leave
are entitled to maternity pay.
A16: Leases and Licences
A lease is a protected right in the premises where a licence is merely permission to
use the premises. t is an important distinction not only in determining the status of
your own property rights, but also when granting someone else rights to your property.
A17: Performer agreements in England and Wales
This advice sheet provides advice for both associates and practice owners and
contains model contracts for NHS and mixed practice in England and Wales where
the practice owner holds the contract with the Primary Care Organisation or where the
associate holds the contract. A separate advice sheet (A19) covers employed
performers.
A18: Setting up in practice
One of the most exhausting and exciting projects that general dental practitioners can
enter into is setting up a brand new dental practice. Sparing the time to read the whole
advice sheet will save a lot of time in the future and prevent common mistakes.
A19: Employed performers in England and Wales
This advice sheet suggests conditions of employment for a performer dentist in
general dental practice in England and Wales, in the form of a model statement which
complies with the requirements of employment legislation.
A20: Co-operative working
Through means of an appropriate legal 'vehicle', be that a form of cooperative, limited
liability company or partnership variant, individual dentists operating as small
businesses can band together under one 'umbrella' to present a single face to
suppliers, customers and potential business partners. This advice sheet explains the
advantages, disadvantages and how to get started.
A21: Associate agreement for private practice
This advice sheet contains a model associate contract for fully private practices. The
model is designed for practices where patients pay for care on a fee-per-item basis or
through a capitation scheme or both. If you have any NHS patients at all, even if your
practice is overwhelmingly private, this model is not appropriate for you.
B1: Ethics in dentistry
The BDA provides a comprehensive advisory service on dental law and ethics. This
advice sheet gives background information on all aspects of ethics in dentistry and
complements the GDC's Maintaining Standards. It should be read by dental students
as part of their undergraduate ethics course and by new graduates confronted by the
realities of practice. More experienced practitioners use it for reference and as a
reminder of their professional responsibilities.
B2: Data protection
Dentists who hold personal identifiable information on computer or in manual records
have responsibilities under the 1998 Data Protection Act. The advice sheet helps
dentists to register correctly and answers common questions about who must
register and how to ensure that patients are given access to their records in
accordance with the law.
B3: Giving Evidence
Occasionally dentists are asked by patients or the Crown Prosecution Service to
provide a report on a patient or give evidence in court as professional or expert
witnesses. Acting as a witness can be a nerve-wracking experience and this advice
sheet will help a dentist prepare. Included are hints on court procedure, writing reports
and the fees and expenses payable for different types of witnesses.
B4: What to do when a general dental practitioner dies
Coping with bereavement is always very difficult for family and colleagues but can be
especially worrying for the family of a general dental practitioner. The immediate
problems of looking after patients, payments, keeping a practice going, appointing a
locum and eventually selling the whole or a share of a practice, all can cause worry
and stress.
B5: Dental discipline committees
Every year, a minority of NHS dentists are disciplined for an alleged breach of their
GDS Terms of Service. This process causes great stress for the practitioner and
knowledge of the procedure and how to respond is essential, even though the
dentist's defence organisation will usually manage the process and represent the
dentist. Members of Dental Discipline Committees and clinical assessors should
also be aware of the procedures that must be followed.
B6: Running your dental practice as a company or Limited Liability
Partnership
In July we expect the GDC to lift the restriction on dental practices being unable to
incorporate and run as Limited Companies or Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPS).
As a result, the BDA have produced a new advice sheet B6: Running your dental
practice as a company or Limited Liability Partnership, which explains to members the
changes that they can make to their practices, including the advantages and
disadvantages of incorporating.
B7: Practice visits
The changing nature of the NHS and new systems of clinical governance and clinical
audit have led to a new system of practice visits being introduced, to replace the old
practice inspections. Although retaining many of the characteristics of the old system,
the new regime is designed to focus particularly on providing help to dental practices
being visited as part of clinical governance as well as ensuring that health and safety
standards are maintained. An additional benefit will be that the information collected
will enable the PCT to develop a profile of the GDS in their areas that will be helpful for
local commissioning.
B9: Prescribing in general dental practice
This advice sheet describes the rules and regulations regarding dental prescribing.
B10: Handling complaints
Dealing with patient complaints is a common experience for dentists. Most
complaints result from a breakdown in communication between patient and practice
and most dentists try to resolve the problem as quickly as possible. Complaints can
also be a valuable tool in alerting practice owners to problems and helping to improve
the practice.
B11: Handling Private Complaints
This advice sheet focuses on dealing with complaints from customers in private
practice where difficulties have arisen in the past due to the lack of an official
complaints procedure. If used effectively, a simple complaints policy can become an
effective management tool and turn a dissatisfied customer into a satisfied one.
B12: Performance Concerns
At some time in your practising career, you may encounter a colleague whose work,
behaviour or activities cause you concern. You may also face a time when you feel that
your own behaviour or professional performance is putting your patients at risk. In
either situation, you should take action but do you know who can advise you and what
support is available? This advice sheet provides practical advice on what to do and
where to go for help.
C2: Collecting money from patients
Minimising bad debts is an important part of successful practice management.
Patients now expect a range of ways to pay for their dental care, including credit and
debit cards and credit agreements.
C3: Business plans
Business plans may be used for a variety of purposes including starting or
purchasing a practice, developing the practice and improving financial performance.
The advice sheet provides guidance on preparing a business plan for an existing and
a new practice and emphasises what should be included. Also included is help with
cashflow forecasting and analysing the practice's performance.
C4 Private dental plans
This advice sheet comes in two parts. The first section introduces the general
principles of private dental plans and will help you identify the areas you need to
consider when choosing and implementing a private dental plan. The second section
describes the main features of the major schemes and is updated approximately
every 12-months.
C6: Financial management in general dental practice
Effective financial management is crucial for the success of a practice and this advice
sheet explains the roles of cashflow forecasting, income, stock and expenditure
control, as well as the balance sheet, profit and loss and capital accounts and helps
you understand their formats and what they tell you.
C7: Superannuation in the GDS
The updated version will be available shortly. Please email if you would like a copy
emailed to you as soon as it is available - Please state the advice sheet required in
the subject. C7 describes the main elements of the NHS Pension Scheme as it
applies to general dental practitioners. It covers eligibility for membership of the
scheme, contributions and benefits. Outline information is provided on retirement age,
early retirement and returning to work after taking retirement.
C8: Fee setting in private dental practice
Setting private fees can be a difficult process and the most common approach is
pirating someone else's because you feel that if yours are broadly similar you will be
offering the "market rate". However the fees charged may not cover your overheads or
ensure profitability or reflect the time or complexity of the treatment.
C9: In-practice capitation schemes
Many dentists and patients alike benefit from private capitation payment schemes.
For dentists, it offers an element of financial stability and practice growth.
D1: Contracts of employment
As well as being a legal requirement, it is good management practice to give
employees a written statement of their main terms and conditions of employment.
This statement forms part of an employee's contract of employment (which is
everything that has been agreed between employer and employee). The advice sheet
contains a model BDA contract for staff in general dental practice and includes the
BDA's recommendations on sickness and holiday pay.
D2: Rewarding staff
The publication of this advice follows the discontinuation of the annual minimum pay
recommendations for professionals complementary to dentistry (PCDs) which the
BDA issued up until 2007.
D3: Employment of dental hygienists
This advice sheets contains a contract of employment for dental hygienists in general
dental practice (which should not be used for those working under self-employed
contracts for services). Also included is information on the duties that dental
hygienists are currently permitted to perform. Dental hygienists' employment status is
also covered but up to date advice should be sought from the BDA if a self-employed
contract is envisaged.
D5 Working with dental therapists in general dental practice
Dental therapists are now able to work in general practice and have much to offer
practices looking to develop their skill range and services available to patients.
Developed with the British Association of Dental Therapists, this advice sheet
explains what a therapist can do and how they can contribute to the team.
D9: Employees' family arrangements and pay
For a small business, a member of staff going on maternity leave can cause
disruptions. The law relating to maternity leave and pay is complex and female
employees enjoy special protection against being dismissed or suffering any
discrimination or detriment because they are pregnant.
D10: Redundancy
This advice sheet provides a clear explanation of the procedure to be undertaken in
selecting an employee for redundancy to ensure that the process is fair.
D11: Practice disciplinary procedures and dismissal
Unfair dismissal proceedings by employees can be extremely expensive and
stressful. Dismissing an employee must be for a fair reason and use a fair procedure
and this advice sheet explains what this means in practice.
D12: Staff recruitment
Making the right choice when recruiting a new member of staff makes financial and
business sense. The recruitment process is also covered by discrimination
legislation and employers should be able to demonstrate that they chose the best
person for the job regardless of race, sex or disability.
D13: Discrimination
Discrimination law is wide ranging and covers employees and self-employed
contractors such as associates and dental hygienists. This advice sheet describes
the scope of the legislation and the actions by employers that might be considered to
be discriminatory.
D14: Violence at work
Coping with abusive or threatening patients is a common part of dental practice.
There are ways in which dentists can protect themselves and their staff by taking
sensible precautions. The advice sheet brings together information on personal
security and applies it to the dental context.
D15: Self-empIoyed hygienists
Many dental hygienists in general dental practices are engaged as self-employed
contractors but this can lead to serious problems with the DSS, the Inland Revenue
and industrial tribunals. This advice sheet considers the characteristics of self-
employed status and provides a contract for services that could be used as a basis of
an agreement between dental hygienist and dental practice.
D16 Tackling harassment by patients
Harassment is: unwanted, unreasonable and offensive behaviour; and behaviour that
creates fear, demoralisation and humiliation and a hostile or ineffective working
environment. A complaints procedure is also included in this advice sheet.
D17 Practice grievance procedures
Employers must operate a grievance procedure for their employees. The advice sheet
provides information on dealing with grievances, a suggested model procedure,
model letters and penalties if the grievance procedure is not used.
E1: Working abroad
This advice sheet covers working in Europe and other countries where UK dental
qualifications are accepted.
E6: Treating overseas patients
This advice sheet provides guidance on how to register a patient from overseas under
the General Dental Services.
E7: A guide to GDS regulations
This advice sheet provides the first comprehensive introduction to GDS rules and
regulations. The Regulations are open to interpretation and the advice sheet gives the
BDA's view on their meaning.
E8: Private care for NHS patients
Dentists are able to offer private dental care to their registered NHS patients as a
means of increasing patient choice and offering treatments that are additional to
those required to secure and maintain the patient's oral health.
E10: CPD, clinical governance, audit and peer review
Check up on the requirements for complying with the rules on keeping up to date with
your CPD, clinical governance and peer review and audit. There is also guidance on
how to select the right CPD for your needs and working out a personal development
plan.
E11: Guide To GDS in England and Wales
A comprehensive guide to the new GDS and PDS in England and Wales, this advice
sheet covers the general contracting arrangements and detailed regulations.
E12: Careers in dentistry
Dentistry provides a range of opportunities that offer work in an interesting and
challenging vocation. The profession has undergone significant change in recent
years, and more responsibility has been devolved to the dental team. The support
staff; such as dental nurses, dental hygienists and therapists and dental technicians
are known as dental care professionals (DCPs), and play an integral part in the
services provided by the modern dental practice.

Back To Top
Applies to: All
Print page
Last reviewed: 27/09/2011
PDF this page
Last updated: 24/08/2011
Search BDA
Help with searching
Advanced search
BDA keyword search
Find an event
Find press release
Find product
Login or Register
Why not also try?
BDA and Dentsply Student
Clinician Programme
Work in general dental
practice without inclusion
on a NHS list
Further information and
BDA contacts
English language testing
qualifications for
acceptance onto an NHS
performers list
History of the BDA
PCTs
Clinical Governance
PCT newsletters
Good Practice Scheme
BDA Tender training
workshops
List of BDA advice
sheets