How to avoid becoming a statistic

In addition, a Dental Protection survey of over 700 dental members earlier this year revealed that 72 per cent of respondents are fearful of being sued by patients, with this fear impacting on the way 81 per cent practise dentistry.

Although the chances of erasure by the GDC are very slim, the distressing impact of an investigation can be devastating to a practitioner. A separate survey by Dental Protection questioning those who have been investigated by the GDC found that 33 per cent contemplated leaving the profession because of the experience.

Senior dento-legal advisers at Dental Protection, Sue Boynton and Stephen Henderson, are presenting the annual Horizons Roadshow in September to explain what happens when dentists receive a claim and what they can do to reduce their risk. Real life case examples will be explored and the impact of the GDC’s current reform of Fitness to Practise procedures will also be discussed.

An interactive session will be held in London on September 10.