One of the most spectacular examples of new technology in modern dentistry is the increasing use of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Dentolegal consultant Jim Lafferty looks at important aspects of the technique

Ms C visited her dentist, requesting an improvement on her overall smile and the specific appearance of the upper lateral incisors.

Mrs R attended Dr A’s practice to discuss treatment options to restore her upper arch.

Beware of a demanding patient with high aesthetic needs – do not be pushed into providing treatment you do not feel is clinically appropriate or potentially damaging to the patient.

Dentists can sometimes face situations where it might be tempting to go along with an action to accommodate a particular patient.

Associate dentists leave their current practice for a variety of reasons,and occasionally this can be due to a breakdown in communication and issues surrounding working relationships within the practice.

Miss N attended an examination appointment with a new dentist,unhappy with the appearance of her upper teeth.

Ms B was suffering from pain that kept her awake at night. An examination by the dentist established tooth 27 was the cause of discomfort.

Mr R attended a practice as a new patient. He reported no symptoms, although during the examination the dentist noted the large composite restoration at 36, which had a small fracture to one side.

A patient complains about a dentist’s technique and an alleged failure to prescribe antibiotics. In this video, find out how Dental Protection helped resolve the complaint.

A retained root causes a patient complaint against a dentist. Watch this short video to find out how the situation arose and what advice Dental Protection gave.

A dentist received a letter of complaint from an elderly patient who had sustained a soft tissue injury to the lining of the left cheek during the restoration of a lower left third molar three months earlier.

Dental Protection advises two members from a practice following a patient complaint after a replacement filling was required.

Dr F, a first year foundation dentist, contacted Dental Protection for assistance as he had been suspended from his foundation dental training.

When the wrong tooth is removed, Dental Protection assisted a dentist in quickly contacting the patient over the error. Find out how this proactive approach helped avoid further action being taken.

This case study looks at how Dental Protection advised a member who had been investigated following the incorrect administration of a sedative.

A retained root causes a patient complaint against a dentist. While Dental Protection supported him in rectifying the matter, issues were raised with his record-keeping – find out what learning points came out of this case.

What may seem a run-of-the-mill appointment for the dentist can often be a major event for the patient. Keeping detailed records of discussions and warnings is essential...

What happens when experts disagree? Clinical opinion can and will differ from dentist to dentist, and as this case shows, sometimes the best option is to bring the experts together...

Allocate sufficient time to form a diagnosis & record both the diagnosis and the treatment indicated in the patient’s record.