Has the patient really consented?
A recent Supreme Court judgment has effectively introduced the principle of 'informed consent' to the law of negligence. Rupert Hoppenbrouwers assesses the implications for dental professionals.
2015, issue 2
2015, issue 2
2015, issue 2
In focus
Leader
GDC FTP reform urgently needed
The GDC's fitness to practise (FTP) process is inefficient, costly and urgently needs reform, says Rupert Hoppenbrouwers.
Feature
I've got a complaint
The DDU's latest study of more than 3,500 patient complaints shows that a reality check is better before treatment, not afterwards.
Feature
When an inspector calls
Ten per cent of dental providers in England will be inspected by CQC each year. Susan N'Jie explains what they can expect under the new inspection process.
Feature
The unvarnished truth - and when to speak it
Dental practices in England must comply with the statutory duty of candour – but many dental professionals remain unclear on how and when it applies. Rupert Hoppenbrouwers cracks the code.
Feature
Waterloo smile
The soldiers of Waterloo sacrificed their teeth to provide a healthy smile for London's elite. Meanwhile, enterprising dental technicians were already working on more durable alternatives.
Feature
Going direct
The success of direct access can depend on managing patient expectations, says Leo Briggs.
Feature
The difficult patient
It's never pleasant to deal with a patient whose demeanour or behaviour is challenging. Leo Briggs offers advice on defusing potential confrontation.
Feature
Oral cancer
With oral cancer month coming up in November, and the launch of Cancer Research UK's Oral Cancer Toolkit, Susan N’Jie advises on the dento-legal aspects of oral cancer diagnosis.
Feature
Change and continuity
At the end of 2015, two stalwarts of the DDU will stand down from their current roles after nearly 50 years' combined service. Head of the DDU Rupert Hoppenbrouwers and his deputy Bryan Harvey may be taking a well-deserved step towards a quieter life, but the dento-legal team will continue to benefit from their considerable experience. This is what they told the DDU Journal about the changing face of dentistry and their future plans.
Feature
Masterclass - marketing your practice
Dental practices are increasingly reliant upon a wide range of media and marketing techniques to promote themselves and the services they offer. John Makin offers tips and guidance on some of the issues to bear in mind when balancing commercial with ethical and regulatory considerations.
Feature
Training for the dental team
Team training is becoming more prescriptive for well-run dental practices. John Makin explains what it takes to get the best out of your team.
News
Introducing John Makin and Leo Briggs
Dento-legal advisers John Makin and Leo Briggs will take over the helm of the DDU in January 2016.
Case study
Showing insight
An orthodontist was horrified when a patient complained about him to the GDC.
News
Thank you to Paul Robinson
Paul Robinson championed the cause of DDU members for over 20 years.
Case study