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We’re so excited for all these October 2022 events for dentists in New York. Find details on these occasions below, including several events for new dentists, multiple opportunities to earn CE credits and a chance to shred old files! Be sure to visit each event’s website for the most updated information and to find registration information.

Membership in organized dentistry connects individual dentists to their larger dental community — across the country, throughout New York State and within local dental societies. In this letter, NYSDA President Dr. James Galati details the many benefits of participating in organized dentistry.

In this second installment of How to Effectively Treat the Difficult Patient, we examine other situations that arise when treating patients who present challenges beyond their dental conditions. We also discuss considerations when discharging a patient.

Be sure to sign up for these September 2022 events for New York State dentists! Dental professionals are invited to join us for several upcoming in-person occasions, including the World’s Fair of Dentistry and two golf tournaments! Read the event details below and find more information at the links provided.

How long a patient has to sue a dentist for dental malpractice is governed by the statute of limitations. The application of the statute of limitations can be confusing and a source of misunderstanding. From a legal perspective, it’s very important for dentists to know the basics and realize its complexity so they can reach out to their dental professional liability provider when such questions arise.

It’s vital that dentists understand the importance of documenting consent in dentistry. The law and best practices require that informed consent be obtained before treatment begins on a patient. The failure to do so may result in malpractice liability.

When used appropriately, social media for dentists can help with business promotion, customer testimonials, reviews and more. While the benefits of using social media may be obvious, the pitfalls of its use may not be as apparent. Below are some important risk management considerations for using social media for your dental practice.

In almost every dentist’s practice, there are difficult dental patients. In this first installment in our new blog series, we will provide recommendations for treating patients who demand or abuse narcotics; are rude or threatening to the dental professionals; or are noncompliant. All patients, even difficult ones, must be evaluated and treated by their dentists until and unless they have been formally discharged from care.

Practicing diligent hand hygiene is a well-known principle of patient and healthcare worker safety and a standard precaution for infection prevention and control in dental practices. Hand hygiene is one of the most important steps that dental staff can take to prevent the spread of infections. Here are strategies to reduce hygiene risks in your practice.

A difficult patient with pre-existing periodontal disease and poor oral care habits presented to a MLMIC-insured dentist. The dentist attempted a total mouth restoration, which failed. Missing portions of the patient’s chart and films made this case difficult to defend and the case was ultimately settled for more than $250,000.