Case studies

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

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

7 January 2025

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

Close up of person holding a pen
Providing a report

7 January 2025

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

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

7 January 2025

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.

Plates spinning on sticks
Direct Access – or departure?

7 January 2025

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

Old person
Too confused to consent?

7 January 2025

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

Files secured with padlock
Data breach

7 January 2025

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

Shouting man against black background
An aggressive patient

7 January 2025

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

Steaming kettle
A confrontational patient

7 January 2025

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

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.