As a dental professional, your license is the key to your practice. It allows you to provide dental care to your patients and earn a living. However, your dental license can be at risk for a variety of reasons, including complaints from patients or colleagues, malpractice claims, and criminal charges. When your license is in jeopardy, it is essential to seek the advice and guidance of a dental attorney.
In this article, we will discuss the steps you should take if your dental license is at risk, and how a dental attorney can help you navigate the process.
Understanding the Risks to Your Dental License
The first step in protecting your dental license is to understand the risks that can lead to its suspension or revocation. These risks can include:- Patient complaints: If a patient files a complaint against you with the state dental board, it can lead to an investigation and possible disciplinary action.
- Malpractice claims: A malpractice claim can arise from a patient's allegation of an error in your treatment or diagnosis. If a malpractice claim is filed, it can lead to a lawsuit and possible disciplinary action.
- Criminal charges: If you are charged with a criminal offense, even if it is unrelated to your dental practice, it can lead to disciplinary action against your license.
Steps to Take if Your Dental License is at Risk
If you receive notice that your dental license is at risk, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your practice. These steps include:- Consult with a dental attorney: A dental attorney can provide you with guidance and representation throughout the process. They can help you understand your options and potential consequences.
- Respond to the notice: It is essential to respond promptly and appropriately to any notice from the state dental board. Failure to do so can result in additional disciplinary action.
- Cooperate with the investigation: If an investigation is initiated, it is important to cooperate fully with the state dental board. Failure to do so can lead to disciplinary action.
- Maintain your records: It is essential to maintain accurate and complete records of your patient care. These records can be critical in defending against complaints or malpractice claims.
How a Dental Attorney Can Help
A dental attorney can provide invaluable assistance in protecting your dental license. They can help you in the following ways:- Provide legal guidance: A dental attorney can provide legal advice and guidance throughout the process, helping you understand your options and potential consequences.
- Represent you before the dental board: A dental attorney can represent you before the state dental board, helping to ensure that your interests are protected.
- Defend against disciplinary action: If disciplinary action is taken against you, a dental attorney can help you defend against it, presenting evidence and arguments on your behalf.
- Negotiate a settlement: In some cases, it may be possible to negotiate a settlement with the state dental board, allowing you to avoid disciplinary action or minimize its impact.