Dental practitioner data (as at June 2015)

The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency has painted a partial picture of dentistry in the nation. There were 21,209 dental practitioners registered across Australia at the end of last financial year, according to AHPRA’s Annual Report. This represents an increase of 2.4% from the previous year. These numbers include dentists, oral health therapists, dental hygienists, dental therapists and dental prosthetists.

NSW has the highest number of dental practitioners with 6449 registrants, followed by Victoria with 4827 registrants.The average age of registered dental practitioners across Australia is 43.

Noting Victorian registration and notifications data, the report states: “There was a reduction in statutory offences received compared with the previous year: 167 this year, down from 221 in 2013/14. The greatest numbers of statutory offence notifications related to osteopathy (44), dental (35) and medical practice (27). Significant investigative and legal activity focused on allegations against unregistered persons allegedly undertaking restricted dental acts”.

The report records legal action taken against unregistered people in Victoria allegedly providing dental treatment. AHPRA and Department of Health and Human Services staff worked together to assess risks and provide information and guidance to the public.