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CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 · Eur J Dent 2019; 13(03): 450-458
DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1700767
Review Article
Dental Investigation Society

Aspects of Clinical Malpractice in Endodontics

Mothanna Alrahabi
1   Department of Restorative Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Taibah University, Madinah Munnawara, Saudi Arabia
,
Muhammad Sohail Zafar
1   Department of Restorative Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Taibah University, Madinah Munnawara, Saudi Arabia
2   Department of Dental Materials, Islamic International Dental College, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan
,
Necdet Adanir
3   Department of Restorative Dentistry, College of Dentistry, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
03 December 2019 (online)

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Abstract

The clinical dentistry and endodontic procedures involve very technique-sensitive procedures, therefore exposing the operator to risks of causes not only damage to patients but also leads to malpractice. Among various disciplines of dentistry, endodontics-related cases witness the most frequently filed malpractice claims. This is due to the fact that the endodontic treatment procedures involve operative and surgical procedures, using a variety of medicaments and techniques. The endodontic procedural errors can be preoperative errors (such as incorrect diagnosis and misinterpretation), intraoperative errors including root canal and pulp chamber perforations, ledge formation leading to apical transportation or zipping, hypochlorite accidents, and fracture of instruments. More critically, failure to use rubber dam may result in inhalation or ingestion of endodontic instruments. Under such circumstances, the endodontist may have to face legal consequences. Due to the increased healthcare load and patients’ awareness, it is important to know the legal ramifications of adverse effects, failed restorations, or other complications, to avoid any legal ramifications of endodontic procedures and associated techniques. Therefore, precautions must be taken to prevent any postsurgical complications, patient complaints, and/or failures. For this purpose, the operator must consider ethical principles and adhere strictly to the standards of healthcare while performing the diagnosis and treatment. A referral toward a specialist or consultant endodontist is always an appreciable option and should be considered in the best interest of the patient. The aim of the article is to highlight various aspects of malpractice in clinical endodontics, and associated materials and challenges. In addition, commonly occurring operating errors during endodontic treatment, possible consequences, precautions, and management have been discussed.

Keywords

complications - dentistry - ethics - medicolegal aspects - root canal treatment