FGDP(UK). 2016 price £30 (GDP members); £35 (non-members) pp 160 ISBN

0-9543451-6-9

Written by dental legal advisers and general dental practitioners, this book aims to provide primary care dental practitioners with aspirational good practice guidelines in clinical examination and record keeping. The original guidelines were published by the FGDP (UK) in 2001 and then again in 2009. This most recent third edition published in 2016 aims to provide the reader with clear and updated guidance in light of the changes in the standards of clinical examinations and developments of the technology used in record keeping. FGDP publications are often seen as the evidential basis for the majority of dental treatment and investigation performed within the UK. The FGDP is seen as an authority that both the General Dental Council and the Department of Health look to for guidance.

The book is in a sturdy spiral bound format, which lends itself to a 'quick reference' feel. Essential information is simplified within the logically arranged chapters, starting with what constitutes dental records (chapter 2) and what encompasses a full examination (chapter 3 and 4). This is divided into a 'pre-exam' (chapter 3) where information may be gathered before the patients see the clinician, and then a 'chair side exam' (chapter 4). Some practitioners carry out both of these processes at chair side while others split the gathering and recording information in two parts; it is for the individual to decide.

In primary dental care the majority of examinations are 'recalls' (chapter 5). Some patients will attend for unplanned visits for items such as pain, trauma or advice concerning a soft tissue lesion and these are discussed in chapter 6. In some cases patients are referred for treatment, which is discussed in chapter 7, followed by electronic records (chapter 8).

Following the main chapters there are a selection of very enlightening scenarios detailing some potentially tricky situations, and how an appropriate examination and assessment can support the case of a clinician. I found these scenarios to be interesting, and could relate them to my own experiences. A final appendices section contains sample forms such as a medical history form, a consent form, etc.

The book highlights recommendations, which have been obtained from the work of a panel who have systemically reviewed the evidence available and the national guidance. They aim to clarify and explicitly make a distinction between essential and baselines practice and aspirational and gold standard practice, and should not be misinterpreted for essential requirements.

In summary, I would not hesitate to recommend this book to any primary care dental practitioner who is looking for an essential reference book for their library. It covers all the essential areas of clinical examination and record keeping. It is important to remember that the book provides guidelines, not requirements, and that national guidelines are constantly changing. This book is highly recommended.