Australian Dentists’ Involvement in Dentolegal Matters

The number of dento-legal cases in Australia has been increasing over the past decade, and this is likely to have a significant impact on the health and well-being of dental practitioners, and the way dentistry is practised. There is currently little information regarding the health and well-being of Australian dentists, their experiences in dento-legal matters, and the impact of dento-legal matters on health and well-being. The aim of this study was to (1) investigate the frequency of, and factors associated with, Australian dentists’ involvement in dento-legal matters, and (2) to explore the perceived impact of dento-legal matters on how dentists practise.

Method:

A self-report online questionnaire was emailed to all members of the Australian Dental Association, who represent approximately 90% of all dentists in Australia. The survey asked respondents to provide demographic and practice information and involvement and impact of dento-legal matters. 

Result:

Of the 10,594 dentists invited to participate, 1,062 completed the questionnaire.  Nearly two thirds of dentists had some prior or current involvement in a dento-legal matter or complaint from a patient, with males significantly more likely to report involvement (p<0.05). The majority of issues were patient complaints directly to the dentist, but complaints to a State Health Care Complaints body or Dental Board comprised 22-45% of matters. Complaints were more common in private practice than the public sector. Dentists involved in dento-legal matters reported becoming more anxious (75% or depressed (51%)) than usual, and many considered giving up dental practice, reducing hours of work or retiring early.

Conclusion:

This study found that dento-legal matters were common in dental practice in Australia, and appeared to have an impact on the dentists involved. Further study is required to understand how these matters relate to the provision of dental care.