Illegal dental practice remains a significant threat to patient safety worldwide. To support advocacy and policy action, FDI has released a concise two-page summary of its global report on illegal dental practice, bringing together the report's key findings and recommendations in an accessible format.

Drawing on responses from 49 National Dental Associations, the report found that while 95% of countries have legislation regulating dental practice, fewer than half consider existing measures effective. More than half (58%) of responding associations reported cases of patient harm linked to illegal dental practice, while 62% reported having no reliable data on its prevalence, highlighting the need for stronger surveillance alongside more effective enforcement. 

Designed as a practical resource for National Dental Associations, policymakers and regulators, the summary highlights the evidence needed to support stronger legislation, improve public awareness and encourage greater collaboration to protect patients from illegal dental practice. 

Download the two-page summary or revisit the full report to explore the findings in more detail.