A hygienist member of Dental Protection contacted us to report that the practice she worked in had received a strongly worded telephone complaint concerning the provision of periodontal therapy, which included the removal of calculus and root surface debridement.

One of the most spectacular examples of new technology in modern dentistry is the increasing use of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Dentolegal consultant Jim Lafferty looks at important aspects of the technique

Ms C visited her dentist, requesting an improvement on her overall smile and the specific appearance of the upper lateral incisors.

Mrs R attended Dr A’s practice to discuss treatment options to restore her upper arch.

Beware of a demanding patient with high aesthetic needs – do not be pushed into providing treatment you do not feel is clinically appropriate or potentially damaging to the patient.

Dentists can sometimes face situations where it might be tempting to go along with an action to accommodate a particular patient.

Associate dentists leave their current practice for a variety of reasons,and occasionally this can be due to a breakdown in communication and issues surrounding working relationships within the practice.

Miss N attended an examination appointment with a new dentist,unhappy with the appearance of her upper teeth.

Ms B was suffering from pain that kept her awake at night. An examination by the dentist established tooth 27 was the cause of discomfort.

Mr R attended a practice as a new patient. He reported no symptoms, although during the examination the dentist noted the large composite restoration at 36, which had a small fracture to one side.