As we celebrate National Dentist Day, it’s not only a time to honour the dedication and expertise of dental professionals but also an opportunity to highlight the importance of trust and safety in dental care. One crucial aspect of ensuring patient confidence and safeguarding vulnerable individuals is through thorough background checks. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the significance of DBS checks for dental practices and why they play a pivotal role in promoting trust and safety.

 

Ensuring Patient Safety

Dental practices are places of trust, where patients entrust their oral health to skilled professionals. However, maintaining this trust requires more than just clinical expertise, it necessitates a commitment to ensuring patient safety at every level. DBS checks serve as a crucial tool in this regard, providing valuable insights into the backgrounds of dental staff and helping identify any potential risks that may compromise patient safety.

 

Understanding DBS checks

You may be thinking what even is a DBS check and are they essential?

A DBS check is a thorough background check carried out to provide information about an individual’s criminal record and other relevant information. It is aimed at safeguarding vulnerable groups, such as children and adults at risk, by ensuring that people who may pose a risk to them are not able to work in certain roles or environments. DBS checks are essential for maintaining the highest standards of care and professionalism.

 

Different types of DBS checks

There are two different levels of DBS checks we provide at Cavity. We offer both Standard and Enhanced DBS checks. Within a dental practice, it is recommended that all staff must undergo an enhanced DBS check.

Standard: A Standard check will show any spent or unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, or warnings the applicant has.

Enhanced: An Enhanced check will show any spent or unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, or warnings the applicant has, as well as any other relevant information held by the applicant’s local police force.

 

Promoting Transparency and accountability

By conducting DBS checks on all dental staff, practices demonstrate a commitment to transparency and accountability. Patients can have confidence knowing that their dental team has undergone thorough screening and is dedicated to upholding ethical standards and protecting their well-being. Additionally, DBS checks help dental practices mitigate potential risks and liabilities, ultimately fostering a safer and more secure environment for patients and staff alike.

 

Common myths about DBS checks and Dentists

Myth: Dentists only need DBS checks if they work with children

While working with children often necessitates DBS checks, it’s not the only scenario. Dentists who treat vulnerable adults, such as elderly patients or individuals with disabilities, also require these checks. Additionally, any role involving direct patient care, regardless of the patient’s age, may warrant a DBS check to ensure patient safety.

Myth: DBS checks are only necessary for dentists working in public institutions

Whether a dentist works in a public institution or a private practice, the need for a DBS check depends on their role and responsibilities. Even in private practices, where dentists may not have direct contact with vulnerable individuals, conducting DBS checks on staff members handling patient records or assisting with procedures demonstrates a commitment to patient safety and professional standards.

Myth: Once a dentist passes a DBS check, they don’t need another one

DBS checks are not a one-time requirement. Dental professionals may need to undergo periodic rechecks, particularly if they change roles within the practice or if there are updates to regulatory requirements. Regular DBS checks help ensure that dental practices maintain a culture of safety and accountability, continuously prioritising patient well-being.

We prioritise safety and excellence. Rest assured, our dentists undergo appropriate DBS checks, guaranteeing your peace of mind for every visit. If you would like more information on compliance regarding Dentists, please email compliance@cavitydentalstaff.co.uk.