Dental Articles Index

As a National Society of Dental Practitioners member and Dentist’s Advantage client, you have access to a full range of helpful articles that you can use in your everyday practice. Articles are written by industry experts, including dental professionals, risk managers and attorneys.

Recent Dental Articles

Displaying results 1-8 (of 57)

|< < 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 > >|

February 2026

Treating Family and Dental Practice Staff Members

Dentists need to consider many factors in deciding whether to treat a family member, a staff member, or a staff member’s family member because these situations are complex. Before deciding to treat, the dentist should consider the legal, ethical, and business implications associated with these situations.

Download Article (PDF)

January 2026

How Dentists Can Avoid Risk When Assuming Care

Patients may choose to transfer to another dentist after a routine visit or even after starting a treatment plan. For example, a patient may have to suddenly relocate, or they may be unhappy with the treatment results to date. Dentists who assume the care of a patient from another dentist have the same professional obligations as for all their patients. Failure to meet those obligations could result in legal action. Consequently, dentists should take steps to ensure a safe transfer of care and meet their responsibilities.

Download Article (PDF)

October 2024

Sedation Risks & Complications: Strategies to Reduce Liabilities

Sedation has become a valuable tool in modern dentistry; however, its use comes with certain challenges and risks. From minor side effects to life-threatening complications, sedation requires a careful balance of skill, preparation, and vigilance. Understanding these risks and implementing proactive strategies is essential for dental professionals to ensure patient safety and minimize legal and professional liabilities. This article delves into these risks and challenges as well as best practices for safe and effective sedation in dental practice.

Download Article (PDF)

October 2024

11 Strategies to Address Staffing Challenges

The nationwide shortage of dental hygienists and assistants has reinforced the need for dental practice leaders to shift their approach to staff recruitment and retention, as staffing shortages take their toll on remaining staff and, in some cases, quality of care. High-quality support from dental hygienists and dental assistants helps to reduce the likelihood of patient safety events and costly medical malpractice lawsuits related to missed errors. Administrative staff are also essential for any dental practice to function properly and to ensure patients have a positive experience. Ensuring appropriate staffing levels is key to the financial health of dental practices, which means engaging in effective recruitment and retention strategies.

Download Article (PDF)

October 2024

Addressing Misinformation in the Dental Office

The wealth of health information available online can be beneficial for patients, but only if that information is accurate. Although recent issues on misinformation have been related to the COVID-19 pandemic, misinformation has been a problem in many other areas related to wellness and healthcare, such as dieting, community water fluoridation, and vitamins and supplements. Although misinformation isn’t new, the internet and social media have supercharged the ability for it to spread. Dentists and other members of the dental care team have the power to counteract misinformation, but first, they need to understand the nature of the problem and why people may be inclined to believe information that is not grounded in science.

Download Article (PDF)

October 2024

11 Strategies to Address Staffing Challenges

Download Article (PDF)

July 2024

Why Patients Sue And how effective communication can help avoid a lawsuit

No healthcare provider welcomes being on the receiving end of legal action from a patient. A lawsuit can leave providers feeling frustrated and disappointed. After all, as a dentist, you are likely committed to delivering quality care and likely pride yourself on your positive relationships with your patients. Unfortunately, sometimes situations emerge that prompt patients to file lawsuits. But by understanding the reasons behind why patients often file lawsuits can help you take steps to prevent them.

Download Article (PDF)

April 2024

Avoiding diagnostic errors: Strategies for dentists

Diagnosis is an essential part of dentistry. Unfortunately, making a diagnosis can be a complicated process that can lead to errors. An inaccurate or missed diagnosis can result in a dentist being named in a lawsuit, which can have professional and personal consequences. But by understanding potential sources of error during the diagnostic process, dentists can help ensure patients receive optimal care and reduce their risk of legal liability.

Download Article (PDF)

Displaying results 1-8 (of 57)

|< < 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 > >|