Bridging Dentistry and the Law: A New Course Offering

Following a triumphant inaugural session in 2024, the College of Dentists of the Province of Tenerife is hosting a new course focused on Introduction to judicial expertise in dentantestomatology. This specialized training, led by Doctor Bernardo Perea Pérez, aims to equip dental professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to serve as expert witnesses in legal cases.

The Growing Need for Dental Judicial Experts

In an increasingly litigious society, judges and lawyers frequently require expert opinions on dental matters. These opinions, provided by dental judicial experts, are crucial for assessing oral damage and determining the appropriateness of dental treatments in various legal proceedings. The demand for qualified experts is rising, reflecting a greater scrutiny of dental practices and patient care. Such as,a recent study by the American Dental Association found that malpractice claims against dentists have increased by 15% over the past decade,highlighting the importance of expert testimony in resolving such disputes.

course Details and Objectives

The intensive course, held at the College’s headquarters in Santa Cruz de tenerife on May 9th and 10th, offers professionals a comprehensive overview of the legal aspects of dentistry. Participants will learn how to analyze dental records, conduct thorough examinations, and prepare legally sound expert reports. The curriculum covers key areas such as:

• Understanding the legal framework governing dental practice.
• Evaluating the standard of care in dental treatments.
• Assessing the extent of oral damage and its impact on patients.
• Preparing and presenting expert testimony in court.

Further details about the academic program and registration can be found on the College’s website: www.dentef.es.

Meet the Expert: Dr. Bernardo perea Pérez

Dr. Bernardo Perea Pérez, a Doctor of Medicine and Dentistry from the Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), leads the course. he is a recognized specialist in legal and Forensic Medicine, bringing a wealth of experience to the program. His credentials include:

• Member of the Scientific and Research Commission of the College of Physicians of Madrid.
• Member of Ethics and Legal Dentistry of the Official college of Dentists and Stomatologists of the I Region.
• Professor of Toxicology and Legal and Forensic Medicine at the UCM.

The Role of the Dental Judicial Expert: Evaluating Treatment Standards

Expert reports are vital tools in evaluating professional conduct from a legal standpoint.Article 355 of the Civil Procedure Law provides the legal foundation for these reports,wich aim to provide qualified opinions on patient treatment. A dental judicial expert analyzes treatments, particularly in cases involving claims for refunds or allegations of malpractice. This analysis requires a comprehensive review of patient records, including radiographs and other diagnostic tests, in addition to a thorough clinical examination.

It’s vital to note that a dental judicial expert who prepares a report may be required to testify in court to validate their findings. To maintain objectivity and impartiality, the expert cannot provide treatment to the patient whose case they are evaluating.

Clinical Situation Reports vs. Expert Reports: Understanding the Difference

It’s crucial to distinguish between a clinical situation report and an expert report. A clinical situation report simply documents a patient’s oral health status without evaluating the appropriateness of past treatments.While a dentist can be subpoenaed as a witness if a patient presents a clinical situation report as evidence, this differs significantly from the role of a dental judicial expert. The expert report offers an opinion on the standard of care and potential negligence, while the clinical situation report merely describes the current condition.