The British Dental Industry Association (BDIA) has announced a new partnership with Community Dental Services CIC (CDS), centred on two clear priorities: upskilling non-clinical teams through the BDIA’s Introduction to Dentistry courses, and improving awareness of the regulations around non-compliant dental equipment and the impact this can have on patient care.

It’s a collaboration built on shared values. Both organisations recognise that a strong, well-informed workforce underpins safe, effective dentistry, and that training opportunities shouldn’t stop at clinical roles, prioritising training for the whole dental team.

Non-clinical teams play a crucial part in how dental services run day to day. They are often the first point of contact for patients and, in many cases, support key decisions around equipment and procurement. Despite this, access to structured, relevant training has not always kept pace with the importance of these roles.

The Introduction to Dentistry courses have been designed to change that. They provide non-clinical staff with a practical grounding in how dentistry works, from terminology, technology, and procedures through to compliance and the patient journey. Just as importantly, it helps build confidence so teams can contribute more effectively across the practice or service.

A core part of the partnership will focus on the regulations covering dental products and the risks associated with non-compliant devices. For non-clinical staff involved in purchasing equipment, knowing what to look for is essential. This includes understanding how equipment should be sourced, the importance of checking for the correct device markings, and why these checks are critical to maintaining compliance and protecting patient safety.

Through the partnership, CDS will roll out the courses across its teams, helping to strengthen understanding and create a more consistent approach to both training and compliance.  CDS is a referral service treating patients with complex additional needs and children with high levels of dental decay and the involvement of the whole practice team is key to ensuring patients receive the highest standards of care.

Professor Adrian Thorp, Clinical Director, Community Dental Services, said:
“CDS is a learning organisation and committed to the skills development of the whole dental team. This partnership with the BDIA reflects our commitment to investing in our people and maintaining high standards across our services. Non-clinical colleagues are integral to how we deliver care. Giving them the right training, particularly around compliance and how to identify properly regulated equipment, helps build confidence and supports safer outcomes for patients.”

Edmund Proffitt, Chief Executive of the BDIA, added:
“Non-clinical teams are sometimes overlooked when it comes to formal training, but their role is fundamental. This partnership is about changing that. By working with Community Dental Services, we’re able to extend the reach of our training and ensure more people understand not just how dentistry works, but also the importance of compliant equipment and safe purchasing practices. That benefits the whole sector.”

As expectations around compliance and patient safety continue to evolve, the need for a well-informed workforce has never been greater. Supporting non-clinical teams with the right knowledge doesn’t just improve day-to-day operations, it strengthens standards across the board.”