# How do I complain about my dentist?

Source: https://thelocaldentist.co.uk/answers/how-do-i-complain-about-my-dentist/
Updated: 2026-07-15

## Quick answer

Complain to the practice first — every dental practice must have a complaints procedure. If that doesn't resolve it, NHS treatment goes through the NHS complaints route (and the Ombudsman); private treatment goes to the free Dental Complaints Service. The GDC investigates serious conduct concerns, not refunds.

## Key facts

- Every dental practice must have a complaints procedure — start there, in writing, with your records
- NHS treatment (England): complain to the practice or your local integrated care board (ICB); final step is the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman
- Private treatment: the Dental Complaints Service (dcs.gdc-uk.org) is free, independent, and can help arrange refunds, redone work, or an apology
- Wales uses 'Putting Things Right' then the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales; Scotland the NHS board then the SPSO; Northern Ireland the HSC trust then the NI Public Services Ombudsman
- The GDC (gdc-uk.org/raising-concerns) investigates serious fitness-to-practise concerns about a professional — it cannot get you a refund or compensation
- Complain promptly — NHS complaints are normally expected within 12 months of the event or of becoming aware of it

Editorial content from The Local Dentist — not clinical advice.