Guides

Declaring convictions or criminal offences as a future dental professional is crucial. Here's our advice on how to do that.

Getting started in facial aesthetics: The DDU and other resources

6 February 2026

With non-surgical cosmetic treatments booming, this quick DDU guide highlights the key dento-legal considerations dental students and newly qualified dentists need to know to set themselves up for success.

Image of dentist sitting with nervous patient
Five tips treating anxious patients

12 November 2025

Few of us feel blissfully relaxed in the dentist’s chair, but some patients are so severely affected by dental phobia that it threatens both their mental well-being and oral health. It’s a serious problem, but there are ways you can help them beat their fear.

Dental nurse speaking to young patient with father in the foreground
Five essential tips treating children and teenagers

11 September 2025

Children and teenagers can present practical and ethical challenges in practice, but you have an opportunity to make a big difference.

young white male dentist and white female assistant treating a white elderly female patient in a dental practice
Five things to focus on when treating elderly patients

15 July 2025

Looking after older patients’ dental health can present practical and ethical challenges, but you can also make a big difference to their quality of life.

Prescription only medicine law change for hygienists and therapists

30 April 2025

Changes to prescription-only medicines (POMs) for hygienists and therapists. Here are five things you need to know about the new POMs law.

young twenty something female student in denim jacket looking through books on a shelf in a library
How to apply GDC standards at dental school: part 3

11 March 2025

Leo Briggs, deputy head of the DDU, shares more practical tips on maintaining and working within your knowledge and skills, raising concerns and personal behaviour.

young male dentist interacting with small toddler who is sitting on his mothers lap smiling and facing the dentist
Five tips for a smooth start to your dental career

11 March 2025

Set yourself up for success with our top tips to help you to transition confidently from dental school to practice life.

How to apply GDC standards at dental school part 2

22 November 2024

Leo Briggs, deputy head of the DDU, offers more practical tips on applying GDC standards as a student. This time he looks at confidentiality, complaints and team working.

Female dental professional sitting next to a male patient in a dentist chair
Working while you train as a dental professional

19 September 2024

DDU adviser Jo-Anne Taylor points out some snakes to avoid when working your way up the career ladder.