Case studies

When tempers boiled over after a patient disagreed with a treatment recommendation, the dentist involved asked the DDU to step in and advise.

Shouting man against black background
An aggressive patient

10 November 2022

A member came to the DDU for advice and support when a patient became abusive towards practice staff.

Man applying whitening gel in front of mirror
A request for more whitening products

10 November 2022

When a patient asked for for extra tooth whitening gels without having been assessed, the DDU helped clarify the situation for the dentist involved.

Files secured with padlock
Data breach

10 November 2022

A potential data breach led one practice owner to contact the DDU with concerns about confidentiality and obligations under the GDPR.

Plates spinning on sticks
Direct Access – or departure?

10 November 2022

When a request to work outside their contract's scope left a member feeling like they were taking on too much, they asked the DDU for advice on whether they should stay or go.

Red and blue pills balanced on scale
Oral sedation or pre-medication for an anxious patient?

10 November 2022

When a member wasn't sure what sort of sedation it would be appropriate for them to prescribe to an anxious patient, they called the DDU.

Close up of person holding a pen
Providing a report

10 November 2022

A request for a witness to fact report caused some uncertainties for a DDU member, who called the advice line for help.

Drawing of parents and children split in half
Providing treatment to a child with separated parents

10 November 2022

Can a dental professional provide treatment to a child with only one parent's consent? One member turns to the DDU for advice.

Set of full dentures on surgical table
Request for a dental clearance

10 November 2022

A DDU member called for advice when they felt a request to remove all a patient's teeth wasn't in their best interest.

Old person
Too confused to consent?

10 November 2022

Assessing a patient's capacity and best interests led one member to seek the DDU's advice on finding a way forward.