Dental Protection Australia
The Dental Protection Australia podcast channel focuses on the key and current dentolegal risks that affect dental practitioners across Australia. The Dental Protection advisory team offers advice and guidance on avoiding these risks, helping dentists provide safe, high-quality patient care. The channel also features RiskBites, which are short, bite-sized episodes addressing issues impacting the profession now.
Episodes
How2... Episode 5: Deal with a regulatory complaint
Receiving notice from your regulatory body telling you there’s been a complaint is one of the scariest moments in your professional life. Would you know what to do if your patient made a complaint about you to your regulator? In this How2, Dr Kiran Keshwara provides practical advice, in minutes.How2 from Dental Protection – meaningful advice in minutes
RiskMatters - What's it like to practice in... United Kingdom (with Raj Rattan)
In this podcast episode, Dr. Annalene Weston interviews Dr. Raj Rattan, a prominent figure in UK dentistry, discussing his journey, the unique aspects of practicing dentistry in the UK, and the challenges faced by dental practitioners.They explore the implications of the NHS contract, the importance of patient care, the impact of social media on expectations, and the significance of continuing edu
How2... Episode 4: Manage a complaint
Have you ever had a patient complain about the practice, about you or the treatment you provided? Do you know what to do if they do? Dr Annalene Weston, Dentolegal Consultant with Dental Protection talks us through the immediate steps to take when complaints arrive at the practice, so we can manage them well to ensure they don’t escalate to the regulator, or a lawyer.How2 from Dental Protection –
RiskMatters - What's it like to practice... Hong Kong (with Dr Paul Lau)
In this episode, Dr. Annalene Weston interviews Dr. Paul Lau, a prominent orthodontist based in Hong Kong, to explore the unique landscape of dental practice in the region.Dr. Lau shares insights into his extensive qualifications and experiences, including his journey from a dental graduate to a specialist in orthodontics. He discusses the singular nature of Hong Kong's dental education system, th
How2... Episode 3: Write a cover letter
Do you stress over applying for a new job? Does the thought of writing a cover letter give you butterflies and cold sweats? Dr Simon Parsons walks us through how we put our best foot forwards when applying for a job.How2 from Dental Protection – meaningful advice in minutes
RiskMatters - What's it like to practice in... Barbados (with Dr Alison Mayers)
In this podcast episode, Dr. Annalene Weston interviews Dr. Alison Mayers, a specialist periodontist from Barbados, about her experiences practicing dentistry in the Caribbean. They discuss the unique challenges faced by dental practitioners in the region, including access to resources, the role of dental councils, and the importance of community health initiatives.Dr. Mayers shares her journey in
How2... Episode 2: Avoid being sued
Do you worry that a dental patient you saw is going to sue you? Would you like to know how you can reduce your chances of getting sued? Dr Kiran Keshwara crystalises the key points regarding litigation, and critically, how to protect yourself.How2 from Dental Protection – meaningful advice in minutes
RiskMatters - What's it like to practice in... Malaysia (with Dr Chong Zhen Feng)
In this podcast episode, Dr. Annalene Weston interviews Dr. Chong Zhen Feng, a dentist from Malaysia, discussing the unique aspects of practicing dentistry in Malaysia.They explore Dr. Chong's journey into dentistry, the landscape of dental education, the challenges faced by dentists, patient care dynamics, insurance systems, specialization, mental health issues, and the future of dentistry in the
How2... Episode 1: Manage burnout
Do you sometimes feel you are burning out? Does it even matter if you do? In this How2 Dr Annalene Weston explores burnout, how it feels, why it matters and outlines some simple protective steps for everyday practice.How2 from Dental Protection – meaningful advice in minutes
RiskMatters - What it's like to practice in... New Zealand (with Dr Ellen Clark)
In this podcast episode, Dr. Annalene Weston interviews Dr. Ellen Clark about her experiences practicing dentistry in New Zealand.They discuss Ellen's journey into dentistry, the unique aspects of practicing in New Zealand, the challenges faced by rural dentists, and the cultural influences on dental practice.They also explore trends in dental care, access to services, and the role of the Accident
RiskMatters - What's it like to practice in... Singapore (with Dr Goh Siew Hor)
In this podcast episode, Dr. Annalene Weston interviews Dr. Goh Siu Ho, a dentist from Singapore, discussing his experiences in dentistry both in Singapore and Papua New Guinea.They explore the differences in dental practices, patient attitudes, challenges faced by dentists, and the importance of cultural understanding in providing dental care.Dr. Goh shares insights on the daily life of a dentist
RiskMatters - What's it like to practice in... Ireland (with Dr Jennifer Collins)
In this episode of the podcast, Dr. Annalene Weston interviews Dr. Jennifer Collins, a general dentist based in Dublin, Ireland, with over 20 years of experience.They discuss the unique challenges and opportunities faced by dental practitioners in Ireland, including the evolution of corporate dentistry, the importance of continuing professional development, and the relationship-based nature of den
RiskMatters - What's it like to practice in... Australia (with Dr Stevie Dilley)
In this podcast episode, Dr. Annalene Weston interviews Dr. Stevie Dilley about her experiences practicing dentistry in Australia. They discuss the unique challenges and opportunities faced by dental practitioners in rural and remote areas, the role of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, and the importance of community and mentorship in the dental field. Stevie shares her journey into dentistry, the
RiskMatters - What's it like to practice in... South Africa (with Dr Ridhwaan Haffajee)
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to practise dentistry in another country? Well wonder no more. In our new series, What’s it like to practise in…, we speak with clinicians from across our key Dental Protection jurisdictions to explore and understand their real-world experiences.From navigating different healthcare systems to understanding cultural expectations and clinical challenges, each ep
CaseMatters - Well, that's not what ChatGPT says
CaseMatters is a podcast series designed to create a shared experience where all points of view are explored.Traditionally, patient questions were directed toward treating clinicians and practitioners. Then came the era of Dr Google, where online searches began shaping expectations and decisions. Now, we’ve entered a new phase altogether: AI-generated advice, opinions, and treatment recommendation
CaseMatters - I always knew my dentist was shady
There are many sides to every story.CaseMatters is a podcast series designed to create a shared experience where all points of view are explored.This episode of CaseMatters highlights the importance of effective communication across all members of staff, particularly, in practices where patient care is shared between multiple practitioners, who each provide different aspects of treatment and care.
RiskMatters - Audits and Item Codes
Have you ever been the subject of an audit related to a third-party payment mechanism such as a private health fund or Medicare? Are you unsure about use of certain item codes, how non-compliant use might lead to scrutiny or even why a particular practitioner might be selected for audit?In this podcast episode, Dr Colm Harney from Dental Protection speaks with Dr. Amit Gurbuxani, General Dental Pr
RiskMatters - Trauma Informed Healthcare with Dr Jacinta Vu
In this podcast episode, Dr Colm Harney from Dental Protection and Dr. Jacinta Vu, Oral Medicine Specialist discuss the importance of trauma-informed dental care, particularly for patients who have experienced domestic violence.They explore how dental practitioners can create a safe and empowering environment for their patients, the significance of understanding trauma and its effects, and the rol
RiskMatters - Deep dive into body dysmorphia
Body Dysmorphic Disorder can lead to relentless dissatisfaction with one’s appearance. Join us as we unpack this important topic and learn how to approach it in dental practice. How do you think we can change the narrative around beauty standards?You can read Carolina's paper on this topic here: Body dysmorphia in dentistry and prosthodontics: A practice based study
RiskBites - Talking about veneers
In recent years, the demand for cosmetic dental services has grown rapidly, and many practitioners will have noticed their patients becoming increasingly eager to enhance their smiles.Among the most commonly requested treatments are dental veneers, performed both in general practice and by specialist prosthodontists. As more clinicians provide these services, we’re also seeing a rise in conversati
RiskBites - Compassionate release of superannuation
It might surprise many of our listeners to learn that compassionate grounds for the early release of superannuation have actually been around for a long time since 1 July 1994, shortly after Australia’s modern superannuation system was introduced.And since 1 July 2018, it’s the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) that has been responsible for approving these applications.This topic has been attractin
RiskBites - Navigating language barriers
In this episode of RiskBites Dr Annalene Weston is joined by her colleague and fellow dentolegal consultant, Dr Kiran Keshwara, to explore a topic that’s becoming increasingly relevant in Australian dental practice.Australia is a rapidly changing and culturally diverse nation. In fact, more than half of our population was either born overseas or has at least one parent who was. That diversity enri
RiskBites - Working with your laboratory
In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked art of communicating effectively with your dental laboratory.Dentists and technicians exchange information daily across multiple channels and on a vast range of clinical and technical matters. Yet, as Dentolegal consultant, Dr Simon Parsons notes, many opportunities to strengthen this communication and ultimately improve clinical outcomes are freque
RiskBites - Perfectly, imperfect
As we move into the festive season and the final days of 2025, many of us naturally pause for reflection, looking back, looking inward, and looking ahead. For our last Risk Bites episode of the year, we wanted to close not with something heavy, but with something uplifting. So, in this episode, Dr Annalene Weston and Mrs Anita Kemp explore the idea of perfection, both the pursuit of aesthetic perf
RiskMatters - Revisiting Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MORNJ) w/ Dr Saskia Salvestro
In this episode of RiskMatters, Senior Dentolegal consultant, Dr Annalene Weston sits down with Dr Saskia Salvestro to explore medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ).Saskia is a highly regarded dental practitioner, recognised for her expertise in contemporary dentistry and her commitment to advancing the profession. Earlier this year, she contributed an exceptional article on MRONJ t
RiskBites - Common contract clauses that cause consternation
Employment contracts are standard in most workplaces, yet their legal language and complex clauses can often leave people feeling uncertain or overwhelmed.In this episode of RiskBites, Dr Annalene Weston and Dr Simon Parson break down some of the more common terms, conditions, and contract clauses you’re likely to encounter. They also discuss why it’s essential to seek professional legal advice be
Risk Matters – Changes to the Oral and Dental Therapeutic Guidelines – Version 4
In this episode of RiskMatters, senior dentolegal consultant at Dental Protection Dr Annalene Weston speaks with Adjunct Associate Professor Geraldine Moses about the recently updated – Therapeutic Guidelines - Oral and Dental version 4, released in September 2025. During their discussion Dr Moses highlights a number of important changes made to many sections of the guidance, including but not li
RiskBites - Talking about time management
The busy and often unpredictable nature of clinical practice can really challenge us as health professionals. So, how do we stay on top of all our work? How do we avoid constant battles with an incredibly scarce resource – time?How can we stay on time in clinical practice, and should we really worry about it too much, or is that only going to add to our cognitive load and stress? Is it really all
RiskBites - Ahpra’s new guidance for health practitioners who advertise non-surgical cosmetic procedures
With the new guidelines for health practitioners who advertise non-surgical cosmetic procedures coming into effect on the 2nd of September 2025, now is the perfect time to review and reflect upon some of the changes. In this episode of RiskBites Dr Simon Parsons and Dr Colm Harney, dentolegal consultants at Dental Protection discuss the key aspects of this guidance in addition to teasing out some
RiskBites - Ahpra's new guidance for Health Practitioners who perform non-surgical procedures
In our April edition of risk bites pertaining to Cosmetics in Dentistry, Dr Colm Harney flagged the intention of Ahpra to release new resources and guidelines for registered practitioners undertaking and advertising non-surgical cosmetic procedures.Well, that time is upon us and as of the 2nd of September 2025 the new guidelines will come into effect. Listen is as Colm steps through the key point
RiskBites: Navigating Ahpra's Advertising Guidance
Advertising clinical procedures can be a minefield, largely due to the rapid adoption of social media by many and the unintended consequences that have arisen from this. In this episode of RiskBites Dr Simon Parsons speaks with fellow dentolegal consultant Dr Kiran Keshwara about the Ahpra guidance and Guidelines for advertising a regulated health service. However, it’s important to note tha
RiskMatters - An in depth and personal discussion with Dr Kaejenn Tchia
In this episode of RiskMatters, Senior dentolegal consultant Dr Annalene Weston speaks with Dr Kaejenn Tchia, Dentist, ADA president for Northern Territory, Entrepreneur, Motivational Coach and founder of ‘The Limitless Dentist. Listen in as Kaejenn graciously shares his passion for supporting and collaborating with fellow dental professionals. Additionally, he aims to shine a light on the challe
RiskBites - Shared care and scope of practice in dental treatment
Sharing care is second nature to most of us, it’s embedded in how we practise, because dental care is never delivered in isolation. Yet while collaborative care may feel intuitive, it’s underpinned by clearly defined principles set out in our shared Code of Conduct and scope of practice guidelines.These frameworks outline the professional standards we are expected to uphold, and they become critic
RiskBites: Independent practice – Who’s driving the bus?
Dental Therapists, Dental Hygienist and Oral Health Therapists continue to receive the highest proportion of complaints related to scope of practice which is likely a reflection of how these roles have evolved over time, often leading to confusion, misunderstanding or lack of awareness.In this episode of RiskBites, Dr Annalene Weston speaks with Mrs Kristin Trafford-Wiezel, a case manager at Denta
CaseMatters - Cant you just put it back in?
CaseMatters is a podcast series designed to create a shared experience where all points of view are explored. In this episode we find out what can happen when a patient who has very strong views about their treatment needs attends a multi-practitioner practice and selectively takes on advice that supports and aligns with his beliefs, choosing to ignore the advice that doesn’t.
RiskMatters - An interview with Dr Trudy Lin - Specialist in special needs, founder and principal of Extra Mile Dental
In this episode of RiskMatters, Dr Annalene Weston from Dental Protection speaks with Dr Trudy Lin. Trudy’s accolades are many and in this podcast, she shares her personal journey into general practice and later special needs dentistry, as well as providing some guiding principles for the inclusion of specials needs care, in general practice. In addition to her impressive dental career, Trudy is
RiskBites - Dental Histories
At Dental Protection we often talk about ‘stranger danger’ and the issues that can arise when treating strangers or new patients. However, it goes without saying that treating new patients is an unavoidable occurrence in our daily practice.In this episode of RiskBites titled Dental Histories, Dr Annalene Weston and Dr Simon Parsons outline a multi-step approach for treating ‘new’ patients that can
RiskMatters - Guest interview – Thrive at work
In this edition, Dr Annalene Weston, Senior Dentolegal Consultant based in the Brisbane Office takes with A/Prof Jo Yarker and Marleen Reinke about their recently completed research into practitioner wellness. This research was funded by the MPS Foundation.The MPS Foundation is a global, not-for-profit, research initiative, dedicated to improving patient safety, reducing risk, and enhancing the we
Risk Bites: Cosmetic Dentistry
In this episode of Riskbites, Senior Dentolegal advisor Dr Annalene Weston and Dr Colm Harney from Dental Protection discuss an area of practice that is under particular scrutiny at the moment by the regulator which is ‘cosmetic dentistry’. Although the existing guidelines about this area of practice are still under consultation, there has been a declared focus on “reforming the regulation of regi
Risk Bites: The Second Victim and the Second Arrow
When an adverse outcome occurs or treatment does not go to plan, our patients are often recognised as the only victim in these situations. But are they? In this episode of RiskBites, Senior Dentolegal consultant Dr Annalene Weston explores the concept of the second victim, and its correlation with the Buddhists parable of the second arrow.Annalene goes on to explain how this teaching essentially
RiskBites: Uber and Audits
Uber, Audits and dentistry and interesting concept. In this episode of RiskBites Senior Dentolegal consultant Dr Annalene Weston quizzes Dr Colm Harney about the title of this podcast and asks the obvious question ‘what does a ride-hailing service have in common with third party payment audits in dentistry.’Colm shares his thoughts and goes on to identify common reference points utilised by privat
RiskMatters: International Women’s day - A conversation with CEO of Medical Protection Society, Karen Miller
In recognition of International Women’s Day, Senior dentolegal consultant Dr Annalene Weston interviews our CEO of Medical Protection Society, Karen Miller. Karen has been and continues to be an inspirational leader to many women and men and in this episode of RiskMatters, Karen shares the highs, lows and lessons learnt in her illustrious career as well as what International Women’s Day means to h
RiskBites: Starting a New Job
It’s often incredibly challenging to know if you’re making the right decision when changing jobs or even starting in a new position for the very first time. Is this going to be the right choice for me? Am I doing the right thing if I have some doubts about the new role?In this episode of RiskBites Dr Annalene Weston and Dr Simon Parsons, dentolegal consultants at Dental protection explore some of
CaseMatters: I’ll make sure everyone knows
As we know communication is key and when things don’t go to plan or as we expected the consequences can be surprising, unkind and unfair. But regardless of this there is always two sides or more, to every story.In this episode of CaseMatters, the practitioner, practice and patient all have their own account and interpretation of their appointments, their discussions, expectations and time togethe
Riskbites: We all need a feel-good story
This year we’ve shared many podcasts that have identified areas of risk and shared information, moments and cases that we can all learn from. For our last podcast of 2024, we wanted to flip our focus and share a feel-good story, reminding us that not all complaints end badly.Too often we can focus on the negative but prior to the year's end we hope that you can each take some time to reflect on, a
RiskMatters: E/Prof Laurie Walsh – Changes to Infection control guidance, what they are and what they mean
In this episode of RiskMatters, Senior Dento-legal Dr Annalene Weston speaks with Emeritus Professor Laurie Walsh about the recent changes to the Infection control guidance, namely the replacement of the Standard 4815 with AS 5369 – Reprocessing of reusable medical devices and other devices in health and non-health related facilities, as well as the subsequent updating of the ADA infection control
Riskbites: The Elasticity of Truth
Is truth linked to fact? Is it a rigid and fixed construct or is it moveable, expanding and contracting like a rubber band. In many ways truth can be subjective and is often seated in an individual’s perception of the facts, what they have experienced, what they believe they have experienced and what they want to believe they have experienced. Unfortunately, when perceptions of truth don’t alig
RiskBites: Burnout – using your third space wisely
Join Dr Annalene Weston and Dr Kiran Keshwara, dentolegal consultants at Dental protection as they discuss the issue of Burnout, one of the most pressing concerns for contemporary dental practitioners globally.Annalene is a champion for interventions that safeguard the needs of dental professionals and in this episode, she explains what Burnout is, how it feels and how it can present in ourselves,
RiskBites: When can a patient sue?
The thought of litigation can unsettle the most seasoned practitioner. A question often asked by members who have received notification, or a threat of legal proceedings is …. ‘When can patients sue?’In this episode of RiskBites Senior dentolegal consultant Dr Annalene Weston and Dr Kiran Keshwara, from Dental protection discuss the how, when and why patients can successfully sue their dentist.The
RiskBites: I’ve received a solicitors letter
Receiving a solicitors letter can be a terrifying experience for any practitioner, particularly when you read it, and are unsure what it means for you and your registration Join Senior Dentolegal Consultant Dr Annalene Weston and Dr Mike Rutherford from Dental Protection as they discuss the different types of letters that can be received, and what to do when they are.
RiskBites: How to document risks and warnings
In this episode of RiskBites, Senior dentolegal consultant Dr Annalene Weston and Dr Ralph Neller focus on how practitioners can best capture their discussions about risk and warnings in their clinical records. Annalene and Ralphs discussion highlights the challenges faced by practitioners when their records fail to evidence these discussions and provide helpful advice of how to document both gene
RiskBites: Online regret repent later
The internet and virtual communication have brought significant gains to our profession and although this might only seem positive, in reality, there is a downside. The fallout from these advances can result in unexpected and unintended consequences for practitioners and patients alike. Join Senior Dentolegal Consultant Dr Annalene Weston and Dr Colm Harney from Dental Protection as they discuss t
RiskBites: Dealing with Angry Patients
At Dental Protection, we are seeing an increase in the number of calls from members who are dealing with upset, angry or aggressive patients.In this episode of RiskBites, Senior Dentolegal consultant Dr Annalene Weston and Dentolegal consultant Dr Kiran Keshwara provide helpful advice on how to recognise an upset or angry patient and provide tips and strategies on how to manage these challenging s
RiskBites: Boundary setting for patients who push
Some aspects of communication with patients are not just necessary, they are vital to ensuring the success of your business and or your individual reputation. In this episode of RiskBites, Dental Protections Senior dentolegal consultant Dr Annalene Weston and our inhouse lawyer Helen Harbourne, discuss the importance of establishing clear professional and personal boundaries with patients from the
RiskBites: Saying No to Patients
Saying no to patients or refusing treatment can be difficult for any well-meaning and caring practitioners. In this episode of RiskBites, Senior Dentolegal consultant Dr Annalene Weston and Dr Kiran Keshwara from Dental Protection focus on the critical subject of how we say no to patients, asking and answering that all-important question ‘Can we do it, should we do and if we should, how are we go
RiskBites: The role of body dysmorphic disorder
Members often suggest content for our podcasts, usually in areas of interest or where they perceive there is a need for more information. Body dysmorphic disorder is one such area, which most would agree is both poorly understood in the dental profession and the broader community. In this edition of RiskBites Senior Dentolegal consultant Dr Annalene Weston and Dr Mike Rutherford focus on the role
RiskBites - Potential pitfalls of aesthetic dentistry
Aesthetic dentistry is an exciting area of dentistry, one that has accelerating in growth and popularity among patients and practitioners alike. While it can be very rewarding, it doesn’t come without its own specific set of risks and complications. Risks that are often far reaching and more challenging than routine dentistry.In this episode of RiskBites, Senior Dentolegal consultant Dr Annalene W
RiskBites: I have received an audit letter from a health fund/Medicare
“Why me?” Dr Mike Rutherford and Dr Annalene Weston discuss why you may have received an audit letter.Further Resourceshttps://www.dentalprotection.org/australia/publications-resources/dentolegal-articles/articles/i-have-received-an-audit-letter-from-a-health-fund-or-medicare_This episode is part of our podcast series, RiskBites, which provides short, bite-sized guidance around some of the key iss
RiskMatters: David Hallett – Why are item numbers so important?
Join Dr David Hallett and Dr Annalene Weston in our latest RiskMatters podcast ‘Why are item numbers so important?’. This insightful discussion on dental item numbers will cover the appropriate use of the ADA glossary codes and in contrast their inappropriate use. Listen as we explore key topics such as why dental practitioners are audited by health funds and Medicare, how the process works and wh
CaseMatters: I though she knew what she was doing
Did you know that CaseMatters titles are genuine quotes from patient complaints that Dental Protection have assisted member with across the globe? The title of this CaseMatters podcast is “I thought she knew what she was doing’ which involved the provision of cosmetic veneers. When a breakdown in communication unexpectedly occurred, the unfortunate result was a complaint to the regulator, a regu
RiskBites: Assault, Battery and Trespass
In this episode of RiskBites Senior dentolegal consultant Dr Annalene Weston and Dental Protections inhouse lawyer Helen Harbourne discuss a particular type of allegation being increasingly argued in compensations claims, this being assault battery, and trespass. Listen in as Annalene and Helen discuss what these terms mean in the eyes of the law and how you can avoid being subject to such accusat
Risk Matters: The road less travelled
Join Dr Annalene Weston, Senior Dentolegal Consultant at Dental Protection and Associate Professor Dr Matthew Hopcraft in this personal and informative episode of Risk Matters, titled “The road less travelled”. Listen in as Annalene and Matt revisit his early introduction into dentistry, talk through his illustrious career and explore different ways in which we can use our dental degree, based on
RiskBites - The Tipping Point - I told you already
Join Dentolegal consultant Dr Simon Parsons and Senior Dentolegal consultant Dr Annalene Weston at Dental Protection, as they consider that in point in time where a patient moves from being a disgruntled patient to a complainant.In this episode Simon recalls a case where a dental practitioner placed six veneers and despite feeling like he had done everything right and the case was a success, his p
RiskBites - The Tipping Point - Do first responses really matter
Join Dr Annalene Weston, Senior Dentolegal consultant at Dental Protection and Case Manger Kristin Trafford Wiezel as they consider that point in time when a patient moves from being a disgruntled patient to a complainant. In this episode Kristin and Annalene discuss a case that highlights the difficulties encountered by practitioners when dealing with complaints, acknowledging that at times these
RiskBites - The Tipping Point - It’s not always about the treatment
Join Case Manager Anita Kemp and Dr Annalene Weston, Senior Dentolegal Consultant at Dental Protection as they discuss some of the reasons that can sit behind a complaint. You may be surprised to hear that it is not always related to treatment.Listen in as Anita and Annalene talk through a case, where the issues that led to a complaint were instigated before the practitioner even met the patients.
RiskBites - The Tipping Point - Consent Counts
Join Case Manager Kristin Trafford Wiezel and Dr Annalene Weston, Senior Dentolegal Consultant at Dental Protection, as they consider an allegation of treatment without consent through the lens of two cases from the Dental Protection Vault.Listen in as Kristin and Annalene identify and explore the tipping point in both cases – a moment in time when a patient moves from being a disgruntled patient
RiskMatters - Cancer... Check! - the changing face of oral cancer - Dr Amanda Phoon Nguyen
Join Dr Annalene Weston, Senior Dentolegal Consultant at Dental Protection, and Oral Medicine Specialist and Expert Dr Amanda Phoon Nguyen for an in-depth Q&A discussion about ‘The changing face of oral cancer’. Listen in as Annalene and Amanda discuss the aetiology of oral cancer, patient demographics and risk factors and red flags. Additionally highlighting the necessity for routine oral can
RiskBites: Patient Autonomy
Not only is patient autonomy one of the four underpinning principles of medical ethics, but it is also a vital component of the consent process and patient care. Gone are the days of paternalism but can patient autonomy go too far.In this episode of RiskBites, Dr Kiran Keshwara and Dr Annalene Weston speak about our patient’s ability to choose or refuse treatment, based on the treatment options p
RiskBites: Imaging in dentistry
Where does imaging sit in managing our risk? In our next episode of RiskBites, Dr Annalene Weston and Dr Kiran Keshwara from Dental Protection discuss the place of imaging in dentistry. Images, whether they are x-rays, photos or digital scans, make an important part of the patient records and should be considered to be a useful adjunct to our written records. Listen to find out more about this key
RiskBites: View from the other side
In the next episode of RiskBites; ’The view from the other side’ Dr Colm Harney shares insight into why some patients complain and claim, when something unexpected happens and why some patients do not. Dr Annalene Weston and Dr Harney discuss the importance of being able to recognise and acknowledge our patient’s viewpoint. Highlighting the key role that patient experience, perception, rapport, an
CaseMatters: You have led me down a path that has cost me great expense
Did you know that all CaseMatters titles are genuine quotes from patient complaints that Dental Protection have assisted members with across the globe? The title of this CaseMatters podcast is “You have led me down a path that has cost me great expense” which involves a smile reconstruction package, a payment plan, and regrettably an unhappy patient and complaint. Many parties became involved in t
RiskMatters: Building your resilience shield
What's resilience? Is this something that you need to be thinking about right now? And what are the potential detrimental effects for you and your patients if you don't? Join Dr Annalene Weston as she discusses this and more with Dr Dan Pronk practising physician, previous Australia Special Air Services (SAS) doctor, and Co-Founder of the Resilience Shield. What lessons can the SAS teach us about
RiskBites: Lessons learned from a life at the coalface
As Dr Mike Rutherford moves to retirement, he shares some key learnings from his career in dentistry, and its many iterations with Dr Annalene Weston. Not only does this podcast explore the evolution of dentistry but also considers where a dental degree can take you and the challenges and opportunities this affords.
RiskMatters: I Wanna Be Sedated
Join Dr Mike Rutherford, Dentolegal Consultant at Dental Protection, and dental expert Dr Greg Mahoney for an in-depth Q&A discussion about the pertinent topic Dental Sedation, its use and possible complications. Dr Greg Mahoney is a practising dentist with an academic interest in anxiolysis and sedation in the dental setting. In this podcast, titled ‘I Wanna Be Sedated’ Mike and Greg provide
RiskMatters: Comfortably Numb – Local Anaesthesia and You
Join Dr Mike Rutherford, Dentolegal Consultant at Dental Protection, and dental expert Dr Greg Mahoney for an in-depth Q&A discussion about the pertinent topic of Local Anaesthetic, its use and possible complications. Dr Greg Mahoney is a practising dentist with an academic interest in pain control and local anaesthetic. In this podcast, titled ‘Comfortably Numb – Local Anaesthetic and You’, M
RiskBites: Dismissing the disgruntled
Take a moment to cast your mind back to an occasion where you have felt invalidated or dismissed. Feeling understood or heard is a powerful experience and effective communication skills such as validating a person’s feelings or concerns can strengthen the therapeutic relationship and build trust with our patients. Find out more in the next episode of RiskBites ‘Dismissing the disgruntled’.
RiskBites: Bite-sized records – who, what, when, where, why
Our latest RiskBites podcast episode will roadmap the fundamental requirements of successful record keeping. The who, what, when, where, and why. Listen in as Dr Annalene Weston, Dentolegal Consultant and Mrs Kristin Trafford-Wiezel, Case Manager at Dental Protection explore this topic, offer valuable insight, and share a template for success in record keeping.
RiskBites: Frogs into Princes - Techniques to Build Trust
The next episode of RiskBites, is a case study example: Frogs into Princes – Techniques to Build Trust, which highlights the key elements required to build a positive dentist-patient relationship.A classic study into health-care research shows that good communication between dentists and patients can lead to less post-operative pain, less medication and earlier recovery. Listen in to find out more
RiskBites: Nice guys finish last
Often we find ourselves reviewing claim after claim without a trace of kindness or empathy being found. In this episode of RiskBites, we talk about the role of kindness in risk management, the benefits of staying connected to our patients in times of distress and outline 4 pillars of kindness to help prop up our practice. Listen in to our podcast ‘Nice guys finish last’ to find out more.
RiskBites: Contemporary wisdom tooth risks
Join Dr Annalene Weston and Dr Mike Rutherford, Dentolegal Consultants at Dental Protection for an in-depth discussion around the key topic of contemporary wisdom tooth risks. Claims and cases related to wisdom teeth have recently significantly increased, and our team of industry professionals will guide you through the common issues we see in those matters and provide useful recommendations to he
