Are hygienists allowed to carry out power bleaching (with the use of light) and what proof of suitable training would be required to carry out this procedure?

The GDC has now opened the gates for hygienists to carry out tooth whitening on the prescription of a dentist, as long as they have the necessary additional skills. The prescription must be in writing and should contain sufficient information for the DCP to understand precisely what treatment is being proposed and allow them to satisfy themselves that that treatment is in the patient's best interests.

The GDC has not, however, offered any detailed guidance as to the training it considers "appropriate" and it is therefore open to interpretation. The most difficult aspect for a DCP is most likely to be the ability to demonstrate that they have received "appropriate" training to carry out this treatment in the event of a challenge.  It seems logical to assume that a DCP in addition to attending a recognised training course may find it helpful to then undertake a number of treatments initially under the direct supervision of a dentist. After this it may be helpful for the DCP to provide the treatment on their own; with the dentist supervising and assessing the outcome.  A record (perhaps a logbook) should be kept of courses and this period of supervised training.  In addition it might be useful to demonstrate that the process and outcome had also been audited from time to time.

Click here to see our position statement on ‘Bleaching and Tooth Whitening by DCPs'.

You can also read a similar question and answer on this topic here