Dentists remain clinical team leaders

The Australian Dental Association has welcomed the retention of the dentist as the clinical team leader in the delivery of dental care to the community. This follows the release of a revised scope of practice registration standard by the Dental Board of Australia.

ADA President Dr Karin Alexander (left) said the revised scope and guidelines “provides consumers with assurance that they will continue to receive high quality dental treatment, in an environment where patient safety is paramount”.

She said the decision warranted some further detailed work, but felt it was clearly positive for the dental profession and for consumers.

The key requirement of the scope of practice registration standard is that all dental practitioners must only perform those procedures for which they have been formally educated and trained in programs of study approved by the Board, and in which they are competent.