A dentist found guilty of serious professional misconduct in Oxford has now brushed up his skills, a disciplinary committee heard yesterday (Friday, September 17).

Hamid Mozneb admitted a string of allegations in November 2002 but was allowed to continue working at his Oxford surgery by the General Dental Council.

Mr Mozneb had failed to treat infections and there were concerns about his poor skills, particularly fitting crowns.

He returned to the council last September but was ordered to continue retraining.

At yesterday's hearing, he listed nine courses he had attended.

He said he had moved on from his time at the Marston Dental Practice, Marston, where he made a catalogue of errors between November 1997 and March 2000.

Mr Mozneb now works at the Manor Dental Surgery, Oxford.

He said: "I have been on the courses to prove I am not the person who was here two years ago."

Chairman Jason Leitch said a 'grave view' was taken by the committee when the case was first heard two years ago, but they noted the actions the dentist took to remedy the situation and had decided to conclude the case.

He said: "The committee would advise you to remain engaged in postgraduate dental education and apply this education to your daily practice. We would like you to consider the employment of a dental hygienist.

"We would further encourage you to continue to attend dental meetings and take an active part in audit and peer review.

"We trust this whole experience has been an important lesson in your professional life and we wish you well in the future."

Mr Mozneb said he cut down his workload from up to 50 people a day to just 15, and now knew when he had to refer patients to a specialist.

Philip Gaisford, for the dentist, said: "It is now five or six years since the original complaints and he has been improving for that period.

"He is able to inspire impressive testimonials from a wide variety of patients who speak of his outstanding manner and a well-run and pleasant practice."