Convoluted Dental Practice Liability Insurance Questions

The classic vision of a dentist is someone who hands out toothbrushes and floss to kids during their bi-annual check-up. However, as the sophistication of dentistry increases, so do the expectations and, as a result, the risk of malpractice claims.

Modern dentists face the same type of malpractice claims as doctors. Malpractice claims can result from:

• Medication and anesthesia errors
• Incorrect diagnosis or failure to detect a serious condition
• Failure to fully inform patients of potential costs
• Failure to properly chart client options and choices

A failure to properly chart client options and choices can be particularly hazardous to dentists. For example, a patient in severe pain may choose an extraction instead of suffering through more extensive reconstructive procedures. At the time it may seem like a logical choice. However, weeks or months later, the patient may not like how the extraction looks and blame the dentist.

Documentation is critical. Good charts can save a dentist from an expensive malpractice claim. Professionals recommend keeping track of treatment plans that are rejected by a patient, either through treatment management software of by hand-written notes.

Managing expectations is also key. Adults who want the same bright smile they had in high school are more likely to become disenchanted with a drawn-out, complicated and expensive treatment regime. Laying out costs and realistic expectations in a written treatment plan early on can help avoid complaints when the work is finished.

Even with detailed charting, malpractice claims can occur. It is vital that dentists have malpractice insurance to protect themselves financially against claims. Typical dental malpractice insurance has graduated levels. There are policies for students, first year professionals and full professionals. A dentist who gets insured early in his career and establishes a record of solid record-keeping and claims history, may find his rates remain more stable through his career.

Dental Practice liability insurance is a cost of doing business for any professional and must be factored into the potential cash flow of a practice. Dental practices also must consider malpractice insurance for hygienists and care managers, as well as dentists. Call us at 800-375-8356 to discuss your Oklahoma dental practice insurance needs.