Sir, having been a serving member of Social Services committees for over eight years I write to offer practical advice as to how to progress cases of possible child abuse, as raised in the BDJ 27 May issue by Dr Hussain (2006; 200: 540).

The first conversation in such cases I would suggest is with the family GP. Likely as not there will be previous history and the doctor will often take over the referral from you. If the buck stays with you there are three avenues that may be preferable to directly contacting Social Services. You can speak to your local police Child Protection Officer or to the relevant school teacher who has responsibility for Children in Care (who are usually 'statemented'), or to a city councillor, one of whom is directly responsible for children's services. As a councillor I referred such cases without divulging my sources, who were usually neighbours.

Anonymity can however never be fully assured. The concerned dentist should make a note in the patient's records and a parent is entitled to view medical and social services records relating to their offspring. However, by following the above route and involving other professionals, the involvement of the GDP is shared and lessens the chance of a parent becoming confrontational. Lastly I would mention that there are hotlines such as NSPCC 0808 800 5000 which anyone can contact to discuss such cases.