Periodontal Diagnosis & Treatment
Periodontology focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and management of diseases affecting the supporting structures of the teeth, including gingivitis and periodontitis.
In a medico-legal context, I assess the accuracy of diagnosis, the progression of disease, and the treatment provided. I also evaluate whether the clinician met the required standard of care.
I pay particular attention to risk factors, treatment planning, and the consequences of delayed or inadequate management, including attachment loss and tooth loss. I assess the diagnosis, classification, and management of periodontitis. This includes evaluating disease severity, grading, and the appropriateness of both non-surgical and surgical interventions.
I also consider whether clinicians identified and managed risk factors appropriately and whether they implemented adequate supportive periodontal care.
Implant Dentistry (including Complications & Failures)
Implant dentistry involves replacing missing teeth with dental implants.
In a medico-legal context, I assess case selection, treatment planning, surgical placement, and prosthetic restoration. I evaluate whether clinicians managed risk factors appropriately and obtained valid informed consent.
I also review the prevention, identification, and management of complications, including peri-implant disease and implant failure, and determine whether the standard of care was met.
I evaluate all aspects of implant therapy, including surgical protocols, prosthetic design, and long-term maintenance.
I assess whether clinicians followed evidence-based guidelines and applied appropriate clinical judgment throughout treatment.
Peri-Implant Diseases
Peri-implant diseases include peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis affecting the tissues around implants.
In a medico-legal context, I assess early diagnosis, risk factor management, and treatment adequacy. I also evaluate whether clinicians implemented appropriate maintenance protocols.
I pay particular attention to prevention, timely intervention, and whether earlier action could have prevented disease progression or implant failure.
Treatment Planning & Standard of Care
Treatment planning is a fundamental component of dental care.
In a medico-legal context, I assess whether the clinician developed an appropriate, evidence-based treatment plan that considered diagnosis, risk factors, and patient-specific factors.
I evaluate the adequacy of the proposed treatment, sequencing, and documentation of informed consent. I also determine whether the plan met the expected standard of care.
Consent & Risk Communication
Consent and risk communication form essential components of dental care.
In a medico-legal context, I assess whether clinicians provided clear, comprehensive, and understandable information about diagnosis, treatment options, risks, benefits, and alternatives.
I evaluate the documentation of consent, the discussion of material risks, and whether the patient could make a fully informed decision.
Management of Complications
The management of complications is a critical aspect of dental care.
In a medico-legal context, I assess whether clinicians recognised complications promptly and managed them appropriately. I also evaluate how they communicated these issues to the patient.
I pay particular attention to timely intervention, documentation, and referral when indicated. I determine whether the clinician maintained the standard of care and minimised harm, especially in complex or high-value cases.
