Here to guide, support and defend you throughout your career

At the DDU, we know it can be a challenge to confidently navigate changing clinical and governmental guidance and we understand the pressures dental professionals face.

That's why we're proud to connect over 98% of calls to dento-legal advisers straight away during normal working hours. We know your time is precious. We're here to support you with quick and accurate responses to your questions.

Why you should choose the DDU

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The benefits of mutuality

Our expert team of dentists, lawyers and claims handlers are on hand to provide support when you need it.

Part of the world's first defence organisation, we are proud of our heritage yet always looking forward and shaping our products and services to meet the changing needs of the profession.

What are the benefits?

  • 24-hour dento-legal helpline.
  • Risk management guides, journals, videos, podcasts and webinars.
  • Free 24-hour employment law advice line for practice principals.

  • Free online CPD and member discounts on courses and books.
  • Help preparing responses to patient complaints.
  • Professional dental indemnity for claims.
  • Free associate contract checking and advice.
  • Indemnity for Good Samaritan acts worldwide.
  • Help to prepare your case for a disciplinary hearing.
  • Support during GDC fitness to practise investigations.
  • Round-the-clock media advice.

Last year I was unfortunate enough to receive a GDC complaint. Having only qualified a few months prior, the complaint was a huge shock for me and nearly led me to terminating my career. The DDU really held my hand throughout the whole process, advising me on what to do, reassuring me, and helping me draft replies. Thankfully the case was closed a few months later with no repercussions.”

Members said...

General dental practitioner

Two steps to becoming a member

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Get a quote

Request a quote to find out how much your subscription will be. Within a few working days, we’ll email you an application pack, including your quote.

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Complete your application

Once you’re happy to proceed, you’ll need to complete an application form.

Frequently asked questions

How much does membership cost?

Our subscriptions are tailored depending on the type and amount of work you do. We can provide you with a quote based on your individual work circumstances. To get a quote, call our membership team on 0800 085 0614 or fill out our get a quote form and we will send you a personalised quote.

How long is membership for?

Membership is provided on an annual basis only.

I would like to discuss my membership face to face

Our team of DDU representatives are based throughout the UK. Find your local liaison manager here.

If I get in touch for advice will my subscription change?

Calls are confidential and will not affect your future subscriptions.

If you face an ethical or dento-legal issue, contact our team of dentists for expert advice on our 24 hour helpline on 0800 374 626.

Does my membership include cover for other work I’ve not told you about?

No. Please call our membership team on 0800 085 0614 or email membership@theddu.com to tell us before your circumstances change.

Is indemnity for vicarious liability included within DDU membership?

Indemnity for clinical negligence claims pleaded vicariously is included as a standard benefit of DDU membership for dental practice principals and our dental corporate members.

Does my individual membership indemnify me for claims brought against my company?

Where clinical services are provided by a company, it is increasingly likely that a claim relating to the alleged negligence of an associate or employed dentist will be made against the company.

If an incorporated entity, such as a limited company, provides clinical services and employs staff, it's important that the entity can respond in its own right to protect the interests of the director(s). Our dental corporate indemnity solution can provide you with the support you need.