Civil liability in the practice of dentistry in Uruguay

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the professional responsibility of dentists in the practice of their profession, considering legal and ethical aspects, as well as the implications for patients arising from dental errors. To identify the most frequent errors that can occur during clinical practice, to evaluate preventive measures, strategies, and actions aimed at reducing the risk of incurring civil liability, and to promote proper management of medical records, informed consent, and follow-up protocols. Finally, to examine cases of dental liability reported to the Comprehensive Professional Assistance Service, a non-profit, union-based insurance cooperative that serves the moral and material interests linked to the professional responsibility of all health professionals and their respective outcomes.

Methods: Descriptive, restrostective and observational research. Using secondary data available in the SAIP database. The study will analyze the temporal trend in the number of claims and the association between the type of claim and dental specialty.

Results: Of the 378 professionals involved in civil liability cases, 76% did not proceed to judicial instances. Moreover, only 6% were subject to civil lawsuits, while 16% of the cases were resolved through conciliation hearings. Male professionals represented the majority of those involved. Orthodontics was the specialty most frequently implicated, followed by Oral Surgery.

Conclusions: These findings contribute to a better understanding of the factors associated with professional liability in Dentistry and provide a basis for the development of prevention and risk management strategies