Child protection: training and experiences of dental therapists.
OBJECTIVE
To identify the training in, experience of and barriers to reporting child abuse among dental therapists in the UK.


METHODS
Postal survey.


METHODS
A postal questionnaire was sent to all practising dental therapists (DTs) in the UK registered with the GDC (n = 851) in October-December 2007.


RESULTS
A response rate of 49% (n = 420) was achieved; 24 (5.7%) questionnaires were incomplete and excluded. One hundred and ninety-three respondents (48.7%) had qualified in the last 10 years. One hundred and forty-seven (37.1%) recalled undergraduate training; 248 (62.6%) had received training since qualifying; 66 (16.6%) recalled no child protection training. Overall child abuse had been suspected by 135 (34%) DTs, while 72 (18%) had suspected but not referred the case.


CONCLUSIONS
The majority of dental therapists (83%, n = 330) have received training in child protection. Overall, 34% (n = 135) have suspected child abuse and 83% (n = 112) of these DTs recorded their suspicions in the patient record. In line with current guidance, most DTs would discuss a case with another dentist.
Chadwick
Barbara L
BL
Paediatric Dentistry Unit, School of Dentistry, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XY. chadwickbl@cardiff.ac.uk
Davies
J
J
Bhatia
S K
SK
Rooney
C
C
McCusker
N
N
D002648:Child; D002649:Child Abuse / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000517:prevention & control; D002669:Child Welfare; D003657:Decision Making; D003727:Dental Auxiliaries / Q000193:education*; D003792:Dental Records; D005260:Female; D019983:Guideline Adherence; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011364:Professional Practice; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D006113:United Kingdom