Medical Malpractice Insurance News

The use of non-FDA approved devices and products pose increased risks for dentists. Similarly, the use of FDA approved devices and products in ways beyond their approval can pose risks for dentists too. Our experts explore the increased liability risks associated with the use of non-FDA approved devices as well as the risks related to the off-label use of FDA approved devices and products.

In this case study, MLMIC examines the distinction between battery and lack of informed consent in present-day professional liability cases and shares takeaways from a legal perspective.

By 2030, one in six people in the world will be over the age of 60. How can dental providers be prepared amidst the lingering effects of the pandemic coupled with the increased demand for care? Here is guidance from our risk management consultants on how to provide safe dental care to seniors.

For dentists, Botox can cause wrinkles. Here’s a case study involving the use of Botox in dentistry and a deep dive into the unique risks that Botox can pose for dental professionals.

A 47-year-old male presented to his dentist with a sore on the inside of his cheek which, months later, was discovered to be oral cancer and led, unfortunately, to the patient’s death. A lack of proper documentation in the dental record and patient noncompliance led to this settlement.

A 52-year-old male presented to a general dentist with multiple dental issues. This dentist, who had no advanced training, completed a complex full mouth restoration on the patient that included sinus lifts, bone grafting, root canals, extractions, implants and more. Here’s what happened.

In the increasingly competitive profession of dentistry, dentists search for an edge to set them apart. Botox is marketed as a way to increase patient traffic to the dental office. However, the use of Botox in dentistry carries additional risks that dentists should know about.

This case of a 55-year-old female who underwent tooth restoration elucidates significant problems with the dentist’s management of the patient’s treatment, beginning with a lack of informed consent. Take a few minutes to learn from the outcome of this high-severity dental liability case.

A small portion of lawsuits brought alleging dental malpractice reach the threshold of “high severity,” which, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ (NAIC) definition, involve serious permanent disability or death. Get an overview of these cases, which are driven by the value or potential value of the injury alleged.

In a message from MLMIC Chief Medical Officer Dr. John Lombardo, Dr. Lombardo discusses the instance of a malpractice case that goes to jury trial, including words of reassurance and insights from his own experience. Read his note, which serves as an introduction to the Q1 2023 issue of The Scope: Dental Edition.