2026 Risk Management Programs
DOES OCCLUSION MATTER? YOU BET IT DOES
Presented by Carl Driscoll, DMD
This course is for all dentists looking to up their level of occlusion knowledge. We will be looking at occlusion from a different perspective than usually presented starting with a review of philosophies of occlusion and the concepts that are currently being used that may be outdated and without merit. We will then proceed to discuss occlusal concerns with the growing patients that need prosthodontic treatment.
Objectives
- To learn the various growth stages that your patients may go through and how they affect your prosthodontic treatment planning and treatment.
- To better understand and apply the various occlusal schemes.
- To understand the use of occlusal devices in developing a stable occlusion.
- To prepare the attendee to treat more complex prosthodontic patients.
INFECTION CONTROL AND REGULATORY COMPLIANCE MADE SIMPLE
Presented by Lori Serna-Pate, RDH, MEd
During the COVID-19 pandemic, infection control in the dental setting is more important than ever. Keeping up with the latest interim guidelines and regulations pose a challenge to the most conscientious clinician. It can easily become an overwhelming process. An understanding of the applicable laws, prevention strategies and a commonsense approach can produce a simple, effective and ongoing program that protects patients and providers alike. A review of current research will provide a scientific basis for infection control policies. A discussion will review proper PPE and respiratory protection as well as the impact of airborne disease transmission. Understanding the required protocols and procedures that would be evaluated during a compliance inspection will be included. The course is designed to help satisfy the annual training requirement for MOSH compliance as well as provide infection control continuing education credits required for Maryland dental relicensure.
Objectives
- Describe the nature of airborne disease transmission
- Evaluate the use of engineering and work practice control for the dental setting
- List policies and protocols recommended in the interim infection prevention control guidance for the dental setting
- Understand the inspection process for infection control compliance
- List methods to protect patients and staff
- Prepare a post-exposure protocol based on current infectious disease tests and treatments
THE PRESCRIPTION DRUG ABUSE EPIDEMIC: WHAT DO WE NEED TO KNOW AND HOW TO DECREASE ITS IMPACT IN OUR COMMUNITY
Presented by Marvin Leventer, DDS
This program will review proper writing of prescriptions, disposal of unused medications and protection of prescription pads.
Objectives
- Identify the problem of prescription drug abuse
- Identify patients at risk for abuse
- Learn how to manage post-op pain without narcotics
- Review proper use and disposal of prescription medications
- Write prescriptions and protect prescription pads
ABUSE & NEGLECT
Presented by Chris Wisnom, CDA, RN, BSN
The program reviews: The Maryland regulations regarding abuse and neglect. The dramatic increase in abuse and neglect that results from the use of alcohol and drugs. The signs, symptoms and oral manifestations of domestic abuse, as well as the timeframe, hotlines and required reporting forms are presented.
Objectives
- Comprehend the ethical and legal guidelines for reporting abuse and neglect
- Incorporate the resources provided into their Standard of Care
- Increase vigilance and reporting for suspected or identified cases of abuse and neglect
DENTAL "CASE CLOSED"
Authored by staff of Professionals Advocate’s Risk Management Department
The importance of good record keeping in these litigious times cannot be understated. Poor or non-existent documentation can result in patient safety issues, as well as make the defensibility of any potential lawsuit problematic. This online course will review the principles of good documentation and offer some practical tips to help reduce your liability risk.
Objectives
- Identify weaknesses in the dental record that can result in miscommunication and poor patient outcomes
- Understand the role of the dental record as crucial evidence in dental malpractice litigation
- Understand the role of informed consent in the dental treatment process
- Recognize how strong documentation of the treatment plan and consent process can prevent litigation