19 - Overprescription

A dentist in general practice was given a first-hand experience of overprescribing by a local colleague when one of his regular patients came back to see him after a two year absence. When he had last seen the patient two years earlier, routine bitewing radiographs had confirmed only minimal treatment requirements, although the dentist had discussed with the patient the possible need to root fill the lower left first permanent molar. The patient then decided to seek another opinion elsewhere, whereupon the second dentist carried out an extensive course of restorative treatment.

After experiencing a few problems over the next year or two, the patient decided to return to the original dentist who carried out an examination and took an OPG radiograph. This revealed that twelve posterior crowns had been fitted by the new dentist, who had also root filled all twelve of these teeth.

Comprehensive and accurate records would be needed by both dentists to support their clinical judgement, if this case ever resulted in a complaint.