We receive numerous enquiries about the process of re-registering as a dental nurse. Many dental nurses opt to come off the register for various reasons, such as preparing for maternity leave, exploring alternative careers, working abroad, and, notably, during the challenging circumstances of the pandemic. The process of re-registering is called ‘restoration’.
How do you apply for restoration?
Firstly, read the restoration information on the GDC here.
Download the application form from the GDC here.
The application form explains everything that you need to submit with your application. Read through all the information carefully, as there are many documents you need to submit – if anything in the application is not completed correctly or documents are missed, this will delay your registration.
Next, find out how much verifiable CPD you are required to do to get restored. This will differ, depending on when you came off the register. We recommend calling GDC for the exact number of hours. The number is: 020 7167 6000. They may confirm that you need to complete non-verifiable CPD. We have information here on non-verifiable CPD.
What's the difference between verifiable and non-verifiable CPD?
Verifiable CPD requires that you have certificate evidence, and non-verifiable CPD requires that you provide a log of your learning time and activities but does not require certificate proof. You should never pay for non-verifiable CPD, as this can easily be accessed through reading content on dental-related websites.
The GDC requires that you include the following as part of you CPD record:
Enhanced verifiable CPD certificates;
- A CPD activity log;
- A Personal Development Plan (PDP).
- Are your certificates valid?
Make sure your certificates will be accepted by the GDC. If you are sending photocopies of your certificates, make sure all the information can be easily seen, as if anything is not showing it will be sent back and slow the process of registration.
If you are posting original certificates, make sure you have copies of these somewhere just in case anything gets lost in the post – you never know!
The GDC requires specific information on the certificates. Here is an example of the information required on a certificate.
At DNN, we have our own CPD course for nurses wanting to get re-registered here. All our certificates are accepted by the GDC.
How long does it take to get restored to the register?
Completing your application forms, making sure you have all the documents you need, and completing any CPD hours required will usually take a couple of weeks. If you complete your CPD online, we recommend completing no more than 7 hours per day – so if you are in a rush to get restored, we recommend getting started with your CPD as soon as possible and working through it over a couple of weeks.
After you have posted your documents to the GDC, they usually take about 3 weeks to process them – unless they are in peak processing times. Try to plan ahead and avoid these times: January, February, August, September. Just make sure you submit everything they request, otherwise this will delay your application, which is not helpful if you are eager to return to work.
Can you work whilst you wait for your GDC registration to be processed and confirmed?
Unfortunately, you cannot. You can, however, work as a dental receptionist until the registration comes through. If you are eager to start work as a registered dental nurse, make sure you complete the form exactly as requested by the GDC, make sure your certificates are valid, and post the form and documents by first class or next day recorded mail so you know they have got there safely.
