Dental Case Studies

Case-based learning has been shown to improve patient outcomes by advancing clinical knowledge.

The case studies presented here provide insights into closed claim scenarios that can help dental professionals enhance their practices as they mitigate risks.

Documentation and Scope of Practice Issues in Dentistry

We analyze a case resulting in patient injuries and provide strategies that address documentation and staff protocols.

Failure to Diagnose and Refer Results in Court and Dental Board Action

This case explores the issues surrounding a misdiagnosis claim and outlines steps to help dental professionals avoid these types of allegations.

Inappropriate Dental Care and Delegation During Use of Conscious Sedation Lead to Patient Death

Our discussion of a tragic case includes strategies to help dental professionals avoid patient injury when performing a treatment or procedure involving sedation or anesthesia.

Management of Treatment Complications in Dentistry

When treatment complications occur, it is often how the situation is handled that determines the outcome for both the patient and the healthcare provider. These strategies can help dental professionals enhance safety and mitigate risk.

Medical Emergencies in the Dental Setting

We present a compelling case example and outline risk management strategies that can help practices prepare for medical emergencies.

Oversedation and Failure to Resuscitate in Dentistry

This case discussion covers risk management issues involving sedation and provides strategies to help practices keep patients safe.

Poor Response to Patient Concerns Contributes to Dental Claim

We offer actionable strategies that can help dental professionals enhance communication and documentation skills.

Process Failures Lead to Patient Harm in Dentistry

We outline important strategies for documenting the clinical justification for any alternative treatment plan, obtaining informed consent, and providing follow-up care.

Referral and Negligent Referral in a Dental Practice

We outline actionable strategies to help dental professionals keep patients safe and avoid potential liability when referring patients to specialty providers.

Responding to Requests for Dental Records and the Consequences of Refusing

This risk management discussion can help dental professionals avoid complaints, investigations, and sanctions when they respond to dental record requests.

Unethical Treatment Leads to Lawsuit and Dental Board Action

Our analysis and risk management discussion of a case involving allegations of unethical treatment includes strategies to help dental professionals avoid becoming the focus of an investigation or claim.

The guidelines suggested here are not rules, do not constitute legal advice, and do not ensure a successful outcome. The ultimate decision regarding the appropriateness of any treatment must be made by each healthcare provider considering the circumstances of the individual situation and in accordance with the laws of the jurisdiction in which the care is rendered.

09/23

Tags: