Are you practising defensive dentistry?
77% of dentists feel they are practising defensive dentistry – it’s no surprise, considering that medical indemnity claims are increasingly being brought by patients, a rise which shows no signs of stopping. But what is defensive dentistry? Are you practising in this way and – if so – what can you do about it?
Frying pan and fire – a cautionary note on private practice
There’s currently a lot of enthusiasm for ‘going private’. It’s in the dental press and all over social media. Concerns over the dental NHS system have been amplified by the pandemic and Brexit, resulting in a reduced workforce.
Rare surgical emphysema – the perils of three-in-one use
Surgical emphysema (or subcutaneous emphysema) occurs when air/gas is located in the subcutaneous tissues (the layer under the skin). This usually occurs in the chest, face or neck. The majority of cases are non-fatal and self-limiting.
73% of dentists anticipate doing less NHS dentistry in the coming two years
Dentistry’s latest census shows that 73% of dentists anticipate doing less NHS dentistry in the coming two years, while 84% anticipate undertaking more private dentistry work in the next 12 months. But why might this be?
A cautionary tale for keeping dental records
All clinicians know the importance of dental records. Many write extremely comprehensive notes, whilst others rely very heavily on auto-notes and auto templates. These can be helpful but can also lead to inconsistencies.
The Densura Story
We are so proud of how far we have come as a company. Since Densura came into existence, our sole mission has been to find the best deals for our dentists – broad, secure insurance cover at a fair price.
The dawn of a new age of indemnity
Just before Christmas the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Sajid Javid, announced that in accordance with the recommendations of the independent inquiry into the issues raised by former surgeon Ian Paterson, the government would be bringing forward proposals for reforming the provision of indemnity in 2022.
The root of the problem – practising outside your scope of practice
Dr H is a popular and competent dentist who has worked in a suburban practice for nearly 10 years and knows his regular patients well.
The solicitor’s letter
There can be little more distressing than to receive a letter from a solicitor. They invariably appear unpleasant with words such as ‘allege’ and ‘negligence’ liberally scattered through the text.