A farewell from Rupert Hoppenbrouwers
In his final editorial as head of the DDU, Rupert Hoppenbrouwers is optimistic about a future built on a productive past.
2015, issue 3
2015, issue 3
2015, issue 3
In Focus
Feature
Pulp fact - looking inside endodontic claims
Root canal treatment is often regarded with dread by patients, but the number of related claims and complaints suggests it's also a source of woe for many dentists. The DDU’s Eric Easson looks into 10 years of claims statistics and highlights some common risk factors.
Case study
The endodontics files - time sensitive
An endodontic claim spanning nearly 20 years highlights the potential complications in this field.
Case study
The endodontics files - broken instrument
A broken file led to complications during a root canal procedure
Interview
'Child protection should be a team effort'
Dental professionals have an ethical duty to raise concerns about possible child abuse, but many are anxious about their role in such emotionally charged situations. For some expert advice, we spoke to Martyn Green, one of the authors of Child Protection and the Dental Team.
Feature
Piecing together a complaints procedure
Having a proper complaints procedure can help you solve patient issues and restore calm, as DDU dento-legal advisers Sarah Ide and David Lauder explain
In focus
The DLA Team
We go behind the scenes and get to know some of the newer members of the DDU's dento-legal advisory team, who provide vital support to our members in times of need.
Interview
Joining forces - morale-boosting dentistry
Toothache on the frontline is a potentially lethal distraction for service personnel. Ensuring that members of the British armed forces are dentally fit is the responsibility of the Dental Defence Service (DDS), who provide oral health advice, check-ups and treatment at UK and overseas military bases, as well as out in the field.
Feature
Teething troubles - a guide to managing young patients
While dental professionals are generally happy to welcome children in their practice, this group of patients can also present professional challenges, as Nick Torlot explains.
Feature
Why I decided to become…an endodontist
Dr Howard Lloyd talks us along the path that led to his career in endodontics
Feature
Masterclass - dealing with angry patients
DDU dento-legal adviser Sue N'Jie advises on what to do if you're worried that an angry patient could turn aggressive.
Feature
Hitting the mark - accuracy and automatic templates
Used correctly, automatic templates for patient records can be a handy tool for the dental professional. But they're not without their potential pitfalls, as John Makin explains.
Case study
Q&As - a snapshot of your ethical dilemmas
A selection of case studies from the DDU's files.