Dentist 'used sink as a urinal'

A dentist urinated in a surgical sink and used sterilised tools to clean his ears and fingernails, a General Dental Council (GDC) tribunal has heard.

Alan Hutchinson, 51, is accused of unhygienic practices at his surgery, Branch Road Dental Practice, in Batley, West Yorkshire.

The father-of-three was suspended from practising after the allegations arose last year.

He admits not routinely wearing gloves but denies all other charges.

The London tribunal heard that a patient complained to North Kirklees Primary Care Trust about Mr Hutchinson's hygiene practices last year.

'Flippant manner'

The unnamed woman, whose family also used the surgery, said Mr Hutchinson had refused to wear gloves while removing her wisdom tooth.

She also claimed he did not wash his hands unless specifically requested to do so and said when she complained to him about his hygiene standards he behaved in a "flippant manner".

The tribunal heard that when staff and other patients were routinely interviewed as part of the investigation into the woman's claims, further allegations were made.

They include one made by a dental nurse who said Mr Hutchinson urinated in the sink of his surgery.

Mr Hutchinson could be removed from the dental register if he is found to be unfit to practise under new guidelines.