Why Data Security Matters in Dentistry

What’s Included

1-hour verifiable CPD (self-directed)

Full set of module slides and reading materials

Downloadable data security checklist and breach log template

Practical case studies from real dental settings. Reflection prompts for your PDP.

Course Overview

Every dental practice relies on patient information — from medical histories and treatment notes to financial records. If that data is lost, misused, or accessed unlawfully, the consequences can be severe: patient harm, regulatory investigation, reputational damage, and financial penalties.

This self-directed CPD course explains why data security is critical in dentistry and shows you how to safeguard sensitive information in line with GDPR, CQC, and GDC requirements. You’ll explore practical strategies for protecting data, handling breaches, and building a culture of confidentiality across your practice.

Unlike traditional tutor-led compliance training (such as those delivered by Glenys Bridges), this programme is designed as a flexible, self-paced e-learning CPD. It includes templates, case studies, and reflection prompts to help you apply learning directly to your role.

Course Fee

£xxx (incl. VAT)

Enrol Today

Protect your patients, your reputation, and your practice by strengthening your data security knowledge.

Certification

CPD certificate upon successful completion of the quiz

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Who Is This Course For?

Practice Managers overseeing compliance and information security

Dental Nurses and Reception staff handling patient data daily

Clinicians storing, transferring, or sharing sensitive information

Anyone in dentistry who needs to understand data protection responsibilities

What You'll Learn

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Explain why data security is essential in dentistry and the risks of poor practice.
Identify common threats to data security, including cyberattacks and human error.
Apply GDPR principles to protect digital and paper records.
Recognise the responsibilities of dental teams in handling patient information.
Use practical security measures such as encryption, password policies, and access controls.
Respond appropriately to data breaches and know the reporting requirements.
Promote a culture of confidentiality and accountability in your practice.
Document compliance for inspections and regulatory audits.

Course Modules

Module 1 – Data Security in Dentistry Why it matters, the risks, and the regulatory context.
Module 2 – GDPR & Confidentiality Principles Legal requirements, rights of patients, and professional standards.
Module 3 – Common Threats to Data Security Cyber risks, phishing, device loss, and human error.
Module 4 – Protecting Patient Data Secure storage, encryption, passwords, and access management.
Module 5 – Breach Management & Reporting How to recognise, record, and report breaches appropriately.
Module 6 – Building a Data Security Culture Team responsibilities, training, audits, and continuous improvement.

GDC Development Outcomes

A: Effective communication with patients and colleagues
B: Management and leadership in a dental setting
D: Maintaining skills, knowledge, and professional behaviours