If You Have a Complaint

Dental patients have a right to expect a professional standard of care from their dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants. If you are dissatisfied with the care you have received or have related concerns, you can request an explanation from your dentist. If you are not satisfied with the explanation, you may lodge a written complaint with the Dental Council of Prince Edward Island. As the body responsible for regulating Dentists and Dental Assistants, and protecting the public in matters related to dentistry, the Dental Council will investigate your complaint. By legislation [Dental Act] the Dental Council cannot require a dentist to refund a patient or pay for dental work to be redone. The Dental Council does not have any jurisdiction to deal with fee disputes or requirement to refund fees. Furthermore, the Council does not have any jurisdiction to deal with civil claims for compensation.

How would I make a Complaint?

Legislation requires that a written, signed complaint must be submitted by mail to:

Dental Council of Prince Edward Island
184 Belvedere Ave
Charlottetown, PEI
C1A 2Z1

Include:

  • Your name, address and telephone number
  • The name and address of the dentist involved
  • The issues of your complaint
  • The name and address of any and all other dentists you consulted
  • Any dental records you may have in your possession
Complaints are acknowledged by letter.

For further information you are welcome to contact the Council office at (902) 628-8156

How will my Complaint be Investigated?

A copy of your complaint letter is sent to the dentist. Reports and records are requested from those providing treatment. This information is reviewed by the Registrar who may mediate the dispute between you and the dentist, or decide to forward the complaint to the Complaints Committee.

Other Important Information:
  • If you are considering a complaint we encourage you to consider first discussing your concerns with your dentist.
  • For advice on specific dental treatment contact a dentist.
  • The Dental Council recommends patients with dental insurance have full knowledge of their benefits.
  • The Dental Council does not set fees for dental treatment.
  • The Dental Council investigates complaints about dental care provided in Prince Edward Island by practitioners registered with the Dental Council of PEI at the time of treatment.
  • The Council's complaint process is independent of any civil legal action.


Dental Council of PEI - © 2024