A statute-based specialist register has been proposed to enhance regulation of dental specialist practice.

The idea was gazetted in the Dentists Registration (Amendment) Bill 2005 today. It proposes to add new provisions to set up the register, and specifies the detailed procedures to include or remove a dentist's name in or from the register, and impose criminal sanctions against unauthorised use of specialist titles.

The amendments will better inform the public, enhance confidence in dental specialists and boost public health protection.

The bill proposes to subject people who use specialist titles without authorisation to a $100,000 fine and three years jail. The current Dentists Registration Ordinance does not provide for the granting of specialist titles to registered dentists.

Registered dentists are now granted the right to use specialist titles by the Dental Council through administrative arrangements. Subject to the passage of the bill, registered dentists who are on the administrative list will automatically be included in the specialist register.

The Government has consulted the profession, the Dental Council and the Dental Association, and they back the amendments.

The bill will be tabled at the Legislative Council on July 6.