Special Care Dentistry Specialists

This is a very new branch of dentistry which was only introduced in 2008. It is focussed upon patients with ‘special needs’ such as a mental, physical, sensory, emotional or social impairment. This can also apply to disabilities or any combination of these.

Visiting the dentist can be a traumatic experience for many people and can be even worse for someone with a mental or physical disability. These patients will have their own set of needs and requirements which must be taken into account before planning any treatment.

This speciality enables dentists to carry out treatment whilst considering the special needs of this group of patients. Treatment will be tailored according to their unique status.

Specialists in this field will practise in either a community dental service or a local dental clinic. Private practice is another option.

As this is a recent addition dentists can apply to join the Specialist List at the General Dental Council (GDC) without a Certificate of Completion of Specialist Training (CCST). This is based upon their experience, qualifications and training.

A consultant in Special Care Dentistry can also apply to be on this List.

Note: after 30th September 2010 candidates must have a CSST to be admitted to the Specialist List.

Dental Specialists Guide Index:

• Dental and maxillofacial radiology Specialists
• Dental public health Specialists
• Endodontic Specialists
• Oral and maxillofacial pathology Specialists
• Oral medicine Specialists
• Oral microbiology Specialists
• Oral surgery Specialists

• Orthodontic Specialists
• Paediatric dentistry Specialists
• Periodontic Specialists
• Prosthodontic Specialists
• Restorative dentistry Specialists
• Special care dentistry Specialists