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Objectives: To extend our knowledge about the applicability of the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) among dentists and to investigate trends in burnout risk among dental professionals. Methods: The structure of the MBI is examined among two independent, representative samples of dentists ( n = 493 and 497, respectively). Moreover, results are compared to those of other independently-practicing health professionals (i.e., general practitioners and physiotherapists). In addition, the percentage of dentists that are at risk for burnout are compared in samples from 1997, 2000, and 2001. Results: Correlations between the Emotional Exhaustion and Depersonalization subscales among dentists were higher than those found elsewhere. Additionally, a considerable increase in burnout risk was found since 1997. Conclusions: It was confirmed that the MBI can be considered a suitable instrument for use among dentists. It is argued that certain specific aspects of entrepreneur-like occupations are reflected in deviating responses to the MBI. Given the clear increase in burnout risk found, this topic should remain under investigation among dentists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to replicate a previous study on informed consent in dental practice, because of the low response-rate of that study. The present study assessed Dutch dentists' knowledge, their attitudes and self-efficacy towards the principle of informed consent, by means of a strongly shortened version of the questionnaire used in the original study. This questionnaire was sent to 384 Dutch dental practitioners; 60.2% of them responded. The results obtained in this study are highly comparable with the results of the original study, thereby increasing the confidence in the outcomes. Results of both studies indicate that dentists still have problems with some aspects of informed consent. Specifically, dentists' fear for legal procedures and the difficulty they have with informing immigrant patients warrants further attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As far as we know, very little has been published in dental literature on how patients' complaints about their dentist's treatment are assessed and what methods are used to try and resolve these complaints with the accused dentist. On the basis of 2 cases, a successful strategy of dental advisers is outlined. How they developed a strategy to resolve the complaint satisfactorily, drawing on knowledge of the use of conversation techniques, with the accused dentist is emphasised. Early on in the conversation, it is particularly important for advisers to understand and sense the often quite emotional state of mind of the dentist. Thereafter, an account of the facts can be formulated and a strategy can be developed for assessing and possibly resolving the patient's complaint.

The character of a consent for treatment is not a mere hobby for lawyers; it also has consequences in daily practicein the Netherlands, particularly if it concerns questions of who should prove what in proceedings. In general, consent agreements can be divided into an obligation to achieve results and an obligation to use reasonable endeavours. In oral healthcare, there is usually a question of an obligation to use reasonable endeavours, in which professional standards must play a leading role in the behaviour of the dentist; and here there have been a number of recent developments, such as an increase in the number of (clinical) guidelines and the acceptance of wish fulfilling medicine, under strict conditions. It is concluded that recent developments in the dentist's requirement to provide evidence in proceedings have definitely not made things simpler.