A KIDDERMINSTER woman has been fined by magistrates after pleading guilty to carrying out teeth whitening illegally.

Following a prosecution by the General Dental Council (GDC), Hannah Davies admitted to practising dentistry – specifically teeth whitening – illegally at Hannah Davies Hair and Beauty, in Hurcott Road, on May 4, of this year.

The Dentists Act 1984 outlines that to practice dentistry legally – which includes teeth whitening – an individual must be registered with the GDC.

She was fined £500 and ordered to a pay a £50 victim surcharge and a contribution of £1,000 towards the GDC’s costs, at Kidderminster Magistrates Court.

The GDC’s role is to regulate the dental team in order to protect patients and help to maintain public confidence in dental services. One of the ways patients are protected and public confidence is maintained, is by prosecuting people who carry out dentistry illegally.

Shaun Round, interim head of illegal practice at the GDC, said: “It is imperative that dental professionals are registered to practice. Registration ensures that only those fully trained and qualified can practice dentistry legally.

“It also places a legal requirement on dental professionals to keep their skills and knowledge up to date through the competition of continued professional development – this makes sure that patients receive the best possible treatment by a professional that is trained, competent and indemnified.

“Registration with the GDC is also required to purchase valid indemnity insurance, which is imperative as it allows patients to seek compensation if they are harmed as a consequence.

“By performing dentistry illegally, patients are placed at serious risk of harm.”

For the register of dental professionals, visit GDC-uk.org.