Don't be caught out

The organisation which offers dento-legal advice and assistance to its members has spoken to its dento-legal advisers and compiled a list of the top five fears faced by dental professionals.

The horror stories listed include missing the opportunity to spot the signs of oral cancer, receiving a complaint and extracting the wrong tooth.

Rupert Hoppenbrouwers, head of the DDU, said:

"At this time of year when many people's thoughts are turning to ghoulish tales of ghosts and monsters, spare a thought for dentists who can be faced with real life frights at any time of year. While many patients fear a trip to the dentist, there are scenarios that can send a chill down even the most experienced dental professional's spine as well.

"We know from our experience of helping thousands of members each year with ethical and legal queries that facing a complaint or a claim or missing a serious condition are something that many dental professionals fear.  Fortunately the DDU is here to support members with all kinds of dento-legal queries and problems.