LATEST NEWS & ANNOUCEMENTS

9 July 2026 

Guidance for Perio School Diploma Graduates: Professional Titles

Over recent months, there has been considerable discussion within the profession regarding the use of the term “Advanced Hygienist.”

To ensure our guidance was accurate and aligned with regulatory expectations, Perio School sought clarification directly from the General Dental Council (GDC). At that time, we were advised that the use of the title could be justified where it reflected appropriate postgraduate qualifications, clinical experience and ongoing professional development. Acting in good faith, we shared this guidance with our Diploma graduates and wider community.

Following further internal discussions at the GDC and engagement with a number of stakeholders, the GDC has since updated its position. In its latest correspondence, the GDC acknowledged that inconsistent advice had previously been provided, stating:

“I apologise for the inconsistency in the messaging from the GDC on this matter.”

The GDC’s current position is that registrants should use only the protected professional titles under which they are registered (for example, Dental Hygienist and/or Dental Therapist). Modifiers such as “Advanced” should not be attached directly to those protected titles. The GDC has confirmed, however, that clinicians may describe their additional qualifications, training and experience separately, provided these descriptions are accurate and not misleading.

Recommended wording for Perio School Diploma graduates

For clinicians who have successfully completed the Diploma in Periodontics, we recommend using your protected professional title alongside a description of your additional qualification.

For example: Dental Hygienist with an Advanced Qualification in Periodontics

Graduates may also wish to include the postnominal: Dip (Perio)

Our position

Whilst this represents a change from the advice originally provided to us by the GDC, we welcome the clarity that this updated position brings.

Our mission remains unchanged: to raise standards of periodontal care, support meaningful postgraduate education, and help clinicians communicate their additional knowledge and skills accurately, transparently and professionally. We will continue to keep our graduates informed of any future updates to GDC guidance as they become available.