CPD module GDC recommended topic 2 CPD hrs All Levels

Complaints Handling in Dentistry

Turn complaints into trust: the GDC-recommended topic every practice needs.

4.8 (233 reviews) 1,989 enrolled 2h of learning Updated Sep 2026
2 CPD hrsVerifiable CPD
2hSelf-paced
8 lessons6 modules
All LevelsNo prior training needed
Part of the Dental CPD pathway · CPD Verifiable CPD you can log in eGDC the day you finish.
View pathway

What you'll learn

Explain the NHS and private dental complaints procedures
Acknowledge, investigate and respond within required timescales
Write responses that are empathetic, factual and defensible
Involve the Dental Complaints Service, PHSO or GDC appropriately
Log, analyse and learn from complaints across the practice

Who is this course for?

Complaints leads Practice managers Reception teams All registrants

Course curriculum

6 modules 8 lessons 2h total 2 CPD hrs on certificate
01 Complaints principles GDC expectations, CQC Regulation 16 and the six principles.

GDC expectations, CQC Regulation 16 and the six principles.

02 Procedures & timescales NHS, private and mixed-practice pathways.

NHS, private and mixed-practice pathways.

03 Investigating & responding Fact finding, meetings and written responses.

Fact finding, meetings and written responses.

04 External bodies DCS, PHSO, GDC and indemnity support.

DCS, PHSO, GDC and indemnity support.

05 Learning from complaints Logs, trends, audits and team discussion.

Logs, trends, audits and team discussion.

06 Assessment & certificate Verifiable CPD assessment.

Verifiable CPD assessment.

About this course

The GDC recommends complaints handling as CPD for all registrants, and CQC expects a clear, learning-focused complaints process. This course covers the full journey from first concern to final response — the six principles of good complaint handling, timescales for NHS and private complaints, written responses that satisfy patients and regulators, and the practice learning loop.

Your certificate

Verifiable CPD certificate — downloadable instantly

Issued the moment you complete the final module. Every certificate lists the course aims and objectives, anticipated learning outcomes, the quality-assurance process and 2 CPD hrs — the elements the GDC requires for verifiable CPD. Non-registrants can use it as CQC training evidence and for appraisals.

Aims & objectives Learning outcomes Unique certificate number 2 CPD hrs
GDC development outcomes A Effective communication with patients, the dental team and others B Effective management of self and working with others in the dental team C Maintenance and development of knowledge and skill within your field of practice D Maintenance of skills, behaviours and attitudes which maintain patient confidence

Learner reviews

4.8

Based on 233 learner reviews · 3 shown

5 3
4 0
3 0
RA
Rachel Adams Practice Manager, Exeter · Aug 2026

As decontamination lead I found the HTM 01-05 content accurate and practical. Used the audit section to tidy up our logs before inspection.

KR
Katie Robinson Lead Dental Nurse, Hull · Jul 2026

Perfect for my annual medical emergencies update. Aligned with Resus Council guidance and the certificate has everything the GDC asks for.

Mohammed Ali
Mohammed Ali Associate Dentist, Oldham · May 2026

Quick, verifiable and relevant. I completed three core topics in one weekend and logged them the same day.

Common questions

When can I start?

Immediately. Access opens the moment your order is confirmed and you can learn from any device, in any order, as many times as you like.

How is the course assessed?

A short multiple-choice or scenario-based assessment at the end of the course with instant results. You can retake it as many times as you need at no extra cost.

Can I enrol my whole team?

Yes. Practices can buy multiple places on one invoice and receive a training matrix for CQC evidence. Contact us for team pricing.

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