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Practice More Safely // Coverage // Myths vs. Facts: Understanding Dental Malpractice Insurance

Myths vs. Facts: Understanding Dental Malpractice Insurance

February 25, 2026

Reading time: 5 minutes

Dentists often underestimate the importance of malpractice insurance, but this article clears up common misconceptions and explains why coverage is essential for every dental professional. You’ll learn how common myths can put your career at risk. By understanding the facts, you’ll be equipped to make informed decisions that protect your practice and reputation.

Key Concepts

  • Common myths about dental malpractice insurance
  • Why every dentist needs malpractice coverage
  • How misconceptions can lead to malpractice risk

Navigating malpractice insurance can be daunting for dental professionals. Myths and misconceptions can cloud the true value of securing strong, reliable coverage. Many dentists may even question, “Do I need my own malpractice insurance?” In most cases, the answer is a resounding yes.

It’s important to keep in mind that malpractice insurance is not just for dental professionals in high-risk environments. Every dental professional can face potential legal risks. That’s why understanding the facts about malpractice insurance coverage is crucial when developing an effective risk management strategy. This article will debunk common malpractice insurance myths and highlight the benefits of malpractice insurance for dentists.

By separating myths from facts, you can make more informed decisions about your insurance needs. Let’s dive into common myths associated with dental malpractice insurance coverage.

What are common dental malpractice insurance myths?

When it comes to malpractice insurance, several misconceptions can influence dentists’ perspectives on it. Many dental professionals operate under flawed assumptions about their malpractice coverage needs. These misunderstandings can have serious consequences, leading to increased risk.

Let’s explore some of the most prevalent malpractice insurance myths:

  • Malpractice insurance is unnecessary as a dentist.
  • All policies offer the same coverage and protection.
  • General liability insurance adequately covers professional liability.
  • I will not be sued if I don’t do anything wrong.

Understanding these myths can help dental professionals recognize the importance of comprehensive coverage and make better choices about their malpractice coverage.

Myth #1: Malpractice insurance is unnecessary as a dentist

Some dentists believe that malpractice insurance isn’t necessary for their practice. They often think that the chances of getting sued are low or only certain specialists need to secure malpractice coverage. However, this is a malpractice insurance myth.

All dental professionals face the possibility of dental malpractice claims. In fact, the average dentist is sued at least once in their career. Even routine procedures can result in unexpected claims. Without dental malpractice insurance, the career you’ve worked hard to build is at risk.

Malpractice insurance provides crucial protection against potential malpractice claims or lawsuits. It can cover costs like legal fees and settlements. Therefore, getting malpractice insurance is a simple, proactive step you can take to protect your career.

Myth #2: All policies provide the same coverage

Assuming that all malpractice insurance policies are the same is a risky misconception. Not all policies offer identical benefits or protections. Coverage can vary significantly between providers. That’s why choosing the right carrier and the right policy is so important.

It’s essential to understand the specific terms of your policy. Different policies might exclude certain procedures or limit coverage. You need a policy that aligns with your practice’s needs and a carrier that has the experience and resources to help you avoid claims and defend you in the event of a claim. To better understand the anatomy of a malpractice policy, read this article.

Malpractice insurance isn’t one size fits all. Finding a carrier who offers coverage tailored to your career and practice can help you ensure all your bases are covered.

Myth #3: General liability insurance covers professional liability

Some practitioners incorrectly assume that general liability insurance covers professional liability. This misunderstanding could leave major gaps in protection.

General liability insurance commonly addresses general claims related to bodily injury or property damage that occurs at your business. It doesn’t generally cover malpractice claims stemming from professional duties. Relying on general liability insurance coverage will not be enough to protect you from the threat of malpractice claims.

Separate malpractice coverage is necessary for professional activities. A dedicated policy ensures protection against legal claims from patient interactions. It’s a key element in comprehensive risk management for dental practices.

Myth #4: I will not be sued if I don’t do anything wrong

A widespread misconception among dental professionals is the belief that they won’t face dental malpractice lawsuits if they adhere to best practices and provide quality care. This myth can be dangerously misleading.

In the field of dentistry, even the most skilled and diligent practitioners can find themselves facing a malpractice claim for various reasons. Patients may have unrealistic expectations, misinterpret treatment outcomes, or simply be unhappy with their results, regardless of whether the dentist acted correctly or negligently. This disconnect can lead to dissatisfaction and, ultimately, legal action.

Moreover, it is essential to understand that the legal system does not require a showing of wrongdoing to initiate a lawsuit. The very nature of malpractice claims allows for individuals to sue healthcare providers, even when a lack of negligence can be established. Many cases arise from misunderstandings or claims based on emotions rather than actual malpractice.

Ultimately, the belief that good practices alone can shield dentists from litigation is a risky notion. A comprehensive malpractice insurance policy is a vital component of safeguarding your career and reputation against potential legal challenges.

What are the benefits of dental malpractice insurance?

Dental malpractice insurance offers numerous benefits beyond just legal protection. Knowing you’re covered allows you to focus on delivering quality care without fear of financial stress.

The benefits of securing malpractice coverage also extend to various professional aspects. Consider the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re safeguarded against potential claims. This assurance can help you maintain your confidence in practice.

Furthermore, malpractice insurance can serve as a valuable resource. Malpractice carriers, like MedPro Group, often provide access to insights from malpractice experts and helpful risk advice. Here are some key benefits you may get from a malpractice policy:

  • A claims team dedicated to your defense.
  • Coverage for legal defense costs and settlements.
  • Access to risk management resources and advice.
  • Peace of mind in the face of unexpected claims.

The importance of malpractice insurance grows as claim severity reaches an all-time high. Protecting yourself from potential lawsuits by getting malpractice coverage is a proactive step every dental professional should take. By integrating malpractice insurance into your risk management strategy, you can better protect your career and reputation.

Protect your good name with MedPro Group

Now that we’ve debunked some of the most common malpractice insurance myths, you can get the coverage you need and feel confident doing so. That’s where MedPro Group comes in. We’ve handled over half a million malpractice claims – more than any other carrier. With a 95% dental trial win rate, we have the claims experience to be there for you when it matters most.

Don’t wait to protect your good name. Get started today with a free, confidential quote.

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Understanding the parts of a dental malpractice policy can help dentists make informed decisions about their insurance. This article breaks down the key components of malpractice coverage so dentists can get a clearer view of how it works and the safeguards it provides.









Key Concepts        





    

  • Defining dental malpractice insurance
    • 




  • The components of a malpractice insurance policy
    • 




  • Considerations for choosing a carrier
    • 










As a dentist, understanding the details of your malpractice insurance policy is crucial. It can help you better protect your practice, your reputation, and your career.





In this article, you will learn about the parts of a dental malpractice insurance policy. Doing so can help you make informed decisions and get the right coverage for your professional needs. Whether you're an experienced dentist or just starting out, this guide can help you understand your malpractice insurance better.





What is malpractice insurance for dentists?





Dental malpractice insurance is a type of professional liability insurance. It's designed to protect dentists from financial loss due to claims of wrongdoing. These claims can arise from alleged negligence, errors, or omissions when providing dental services.





A malpractice policy is more than just a safety net. It's a crucial tool for safeguarding your reputation and career in the face of potential lawsuits. Without adequate coverage, a single malpractice claim can lead to significant financial strain. That's why understanding the nuances of a dental malpractice policy is essential. It allows you to ensure that your policy provides the necessary coverage for your unique practice needs. It can also help you navigate the claims process more effectively.





The components of a dental malpractice policy





A dental malpractice policy is composed of several key aspects. Each part plays an important role in defining the scope and limitations of your coverage. The main parts of a policy typically include the declarations page, insuring agreement, exclusions, and endorsements. Each component provides specific information about your policy.





The declarations page is the first part of your malpractice policy. It provides a snapshot of your coverage. This page typically includes information such as the policyholder's name, policy period, and policy limits. It's essential to review this page carefully. It can help you understand the basic parameters of your coverage and ensure they align with your practice's needs.





The insuring agreement is the heart of your malpractice policy. It outlines the carrier's promise to provide coverage for claims arising from your professional services. This section details the circumstances under which the carrier will defend and indemnify you. Understanding the insuring agreement is crucial. It helps you grasp the extent of your coverage and the conditions under which it applies.





Exclusions are as important as the coverage itself. They define what is not covered by your policy. Common exclusions may include intentional acts, sexual misconduct, or services rendered outside the scope of your license. The exclusions section is important. It will help you identify any coverage gaps.





Endorsements can add to, remove from, or modify the standard coverage. For example, an endorsement can be added to your policy to reflect a premium credit if you are working part-time or taking an extended break from practice.





The consent-to-settle clause is a critical aspect of any malpractice policy. Under a pure consent provision, you, the policyholder, have the right to refuse to settle a malpractice claim, with no exceptions. The carrier cannot settle a claim without your consent. Keep in mind that some insurance providers offer "consent to settle" only with certain exceptions. MedPro Group – the industry’s leading carrier – offers pure consent with no exceptions.





Types of dental malpractice policies





Malpractice policies come in two main types: Claims-made and Occurrence. Understanding these types is essential when choosing the right coverage for your practice.





Occurrence coverage doesn’t end when the policy ends. If someone files a claim against you, your Occurrence policy from the year of the incident will cover you. Claims-made coverage ends when the policy ends, so you may have to buy tail coverage to stay protected for any claims made against you after the policy ends. The major differences between the two are how long they protect you and how much they cost. They both have unique benefits.





To learn more about malpractice policy types, including tail coverage, check out our Guide to Malpractice Insurance.





Choosing the right dental malpractice insurance for you





Choosing the best dental malpractice insurance requires careful consideration. It's not just about finding the most affordable policy, but the one that offers the most comprehensive coverage for your specific needs. Consider factors such as the carrier's financial stability, claims management success, and customer service. In addition, the policy's coverage limits, exclusions, and endorsements are important to take into account. Make sure the policy covers all aspects of your practice. To learn more about how to choose the right malpractice policy, read this article.





When comparing providers and policies, don't just look at the price. Consider the coverage each policy offers and whether it meets your specific needs. Your carrier should also have a great reputation and long-standing financial stability. Check reviews and ratings from independent agencies. Remember, the goal is to find a policy that offers the best protection for your practice, not just the one with the lowest price.





Several factors can influence how you choose your malpractice insurance, including how much it costs. When it comes to your malpractice insurance cost, it’s important to note that your practice location, the size of your practice, and your claims history will be factored in. Your specialty within dentistry can also affect your premiums, as some procedures are considered higher risk. It's important to fully disclose all aspects of your practice to your carrier to ensure you receive adequate coverage.





Check out this article to learn more about how the price of malpractice insurance is determined.





Feel confident in your coverage with MedPro Group





Dental malpractice insurance can seem overwhelming and confusing. With the right carrier on your side, you can ensure you get coverage tailored to your needs so you can practice with greater confidence.





With 125+ years of experience and half a million cases handled, MedPro Group is uniquely positioned to protect your good name. Secure your peace of mind by starting a quote today.


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Dental malpractice claims can be emotionally and financially draining. Implementing strategies to avoid them in advance can help dentists protect their practice and better care for their patients.









Key Concepts





    

  • What is a dental malpractice claim?
    • 




  • Preventing dental malpractice claims
    • 




  • Securing dental malpractice insurance
    • 










Dental care is an essential healthcare service. As a dentist, you play an important role in your patients' well-being. However, the responsibility of patient care comes with the risk of malpractice claims.





Malpractice claims can be financially draining and damaging to your professional reputation. That's why it's helpful to know the risks and identify ways to reduce them in your practice. In this article, we will share tips to help reduce the likelihood of malpractice claims in dental care and discuss the importance of malpractice insurance for dentists.





Understanding dental malpractice claims





Dental malpractice occurs when a dentist fails to provide treatment in conformity with the standard of care, thereby making it negligent, resulting in harm to a patient. This can include incorrect or missed diagnoses, improper treatment, or improper choice of or planning for a procedure. To avoid these situations, it's vital to have a comprehensive claim prevention plan in place.





Acquiring dental malpractice insurance is a crucial aspect of your claim prevention strategy. It provides financial protection against claims, covering legal fees, settlements, and damages awarded after a trial. Choosing the best dental malpractice insurance requires thorough research of available coverage options.





MedPro Group offers tailored dental malpractice insurance, ensuring that you have the protection you need to practice with peace of mind.





Key strategies for preventing malpractice claims





In addition to getting a malpractice insurance policy, what can you do to help prevent malpractice claims? Here are some useful strategies to consider:





Keep detailed patient records





    

  • Maintaining detailed and accurate patient records is essential. This includes documenting patient histories, examinations, treatments, and any communication. Keeping thorough records is important for providing consistent care and can be crucial in a legal dispute. Dental records should never be altered. Thorough, complete, and contemporaneous documentation is a key factor in maintaining professional credibility.
    • 






Stay informed and educated





    

  • Continuing education allows you to stay up to date with the latest dental techniques and standards of care. Going to workshops and classes can help you take better care of your patients and reduce the possibility of mistakes.
    • 






Manage your practice effectively





    

  • To minimize errors in your practice, it’s a good idea to implement consistent protocols for scheduling appointments, patient communication (e.g. reminders and follow-ups), and more. Make sure your office has a policy in place to follow up with patients who have canceled appointments to ensure they are promptly rescheduled. This is especially important for patients who you may be monitoring for developing dental issues. Streamlining administrative tasks can improve efficiency and overall patient satisfaction.
    • 






Communicate clearly with patients





    

  • It's important to talk openly with patients about their treatment. Obtain informed consent for all treatments, ensuring patients understand what to expect, including possible risks, from the proposed treatment. Clear communication can help prevent misunderstandings that could lead to malpractice claims.
    • 






Practice within your scope





    

  • As a dentist, it's important to only practice within the scope of your expertise and licensure. Avoid offering treatments or advice outside of your professional capacity, as this can increase your malpractice risk. Similarly, non-professional office staff should never be permitted to provide any dental or medical advice to patients. If you feel as though the patient's condition or treatment would be better handled by a specialist, refer the patient out. Do not let a patient's finances dictate or constrain the treatment steps you believe are necessary to effectively treat the patient within the standard of care.
    • 






Follow the standard of care





    

  • Following standard treatment protocols can minimize the chance of mistakes and minimize your malpractice risks.
    • 






Prioritize patient safety





    

  • Always prioritize patient safety during treatments. Be mindful of techniques that pose risks, especially for patients with pre-existing conditions or complex medical histories. If you're uncertain about a particular treatment, seek a second opinion or refer the patient to a dental specialist.
    • 






How to handle a dental malpractice claim





In the unfortunate event of a malpractice claim, it's important to handle it promptly and professionally. Here are some initial steps to consider:





Contact your insurance provider





Immediately notify your dental malpractice insurance provider if you receive a claim or have reason to believe a claim is imminent. Avoid discussing the claim with anyone before contacting your insurance carrier. They will help guide you through the process and provide legal representation if necessary.





Do not alter patient records





A clinical note should be completed as contemporaneously as possible with treatment. If you notice an error in your original note or omitted information, do not alter the original note. Rather, make an addendum and reference the date of the original note and the date of treatment, and then explain your addition. Altering records can be seen as an attempt to cover up the facts and can severely harm your ability to resolve a claim.





Cooperate with your claims consultant





Work closely with your malpractice insurance carrier’s claims team. Provide them with all the necessary documentation and information to address the claim.





Check out this article for more information on what to expect from a malpractice claim.





Malpractice insurance considerations





Facing malpractice claims in dental practice can be daunting, but acquiring the best malpractice coverage can help you manage risk. By being proactive, you can keep your patients safe and practice with confidence.





When purchasing dental malpractice insurance, keep the following in mind:





Coverage limits





    

  • 






    

  • Make sure your policy provides adequate coverage to protect your assets and practice in the event of a claim.
    • 






Customizable policies





    

  • The coverage you need is unique to your practice and specialty. That's why MedPro offers policies tailored to meet the specific needs of dentists.
    • 






Customer service and support





    

  • Excellent customer support goes a long way. Your carrier should guide you through the process of handling claims and answer any questions you may have. MedPro Group offers hands-on, reliable service so dentists can feel confident in their coverage.
    • 






Carrier strength





    

  • Your malpractice insurance carrier should have the financial strength and expertise to defend you from claims. MedPro Group is a carrier with an A++ financial rating (AM Best) and has a dental trial win rate of 95%.
    • 






Get the right coverage from MedPro Group





MedPro Group, the nation’s leading malpractice insurance carrier, offers coverage options tailored to the unique needs of dentists. Over 45,000 dentists nationwide choose MedPro. With the industry’s best claims team and a group of risk consultants averaging 30 years of experience, MedPro Group is prepared to help dentists protect their practice and their future.





Secure your peace of mind today with a free quote.





For latest AM Best rating, access ambest.com.





All data is derived from MedPro Group records and calculations; claims data range is 2013-2022 unless otherwise indicated. MedPro Group is the marketing name used to refer to the insurance operations of The Medical Protective Company, Princeton Insurance Company, PLICO, Inc. and MedPro RRG Risk Retention Group. All insurance products are administered by MedPro Group and underwritten by these and other Berkshire Hathaway affiliates, including National Fire & Marine Insurance Company. Product availability is based upon business and/or regulatory approval and may differ among companies.





© MedPro Group Inc. All Rights Reserved.


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As a dentist, purchasing malpractice insurance is the best way to protect your career and practice. Whether you're an associate, practice owner, or near retirement, understanding the difference between policy types can help you determine which coverage is right for you.









Key Concepts





    

  • Malpractice policy types
    • 




  • Solo practitioner vs. group practice
    • 




  • Policy limits and cost considerations
    • 










The average dentist is sued at least once in their career, and most never see it coming. That’s why having malpractice insurance is an essential part of practicing dentistry. A malpractice policy offers coverage and defense against accusations of negligence that may be brought against you. Malpractice insurance is the best way to protect yourself from the threat of lawsuits that can jeopardize your career, practice, and financial stability.





Purchasing dental malpractice insurance requires some strategy. To make an informed decision, you should:





    

  1. Compare policies
    2. 




  2. Regularly assess your business needs
    3. 




  3. Consult a professional for guidance
    4. 






It’s crucial to understand the available policy types before choosing a specific one.





What Are the Different Malpractice Policy Types?





There are two main malpractice policy types dentists can choose from: Occurrence and Claims-made. To decide which one will best meet your unique needs, you must first understand each policy’s benefits and limitations.





    

  • A Claims-made policy covers claims that are brought against you during the policy period, regardless of when the incident occurred. Your protection ends at the end of the policy term. If you leave a practice or retire, you’ll most likely need to purchase tail coverage.
    • 






    

  • Tail coverage (sometimes called an Extended Reporting Endorsement) keeps you covered for any claims made against you once you stop practicing or end your Claims-made policy. Tail coverage can be expensive, sometimes double or triple your current annual premium.
    • 






    

  • An Occurrence policy covers incidents that occur during the policy period, even if the claim is made after the period ends. Occurrence coverage doesn’t end when the policy ends. If someone files a claim against you, your Occurrence policy from the year of the incident will cover you. Each year you renew your policy, you have a new set of limits to protect you from any future claims that result from incidents occurring that year. 
    • 






Though Occurrence policies are generally more costly upfront than Claims-made policies, when the cost for tail coverage is factored in, Occurrence is often cheaper than Claims-made coverage in the long run.





As your insurance needs evolve over time, you’ll need to review your policy regularly and make adjustments as needed. In doing so, you can ensure you always have the right coverage for your current circumstances.





Cost Considerations for Each Policy Type





The cost of a dental malpractice policy varies by location, claims history, and other factors. Claims-made policies typically cost less during the first year, while rates increase annually as the policy progresses.





Conversely, the cost of an Occurrence policy can be higher at first, but over time, the premiums are more stable and predictable, often making Occurrence coverage more affordable in the long run. 





Learn more about malpractice insurance pricing in this article.





Solo vs. Group Practice





Understanding your specific role within a practice will help you determine which policy type and limits will best apply to your situation.





Owning a Practice





As owner of your practice, you are often a marketer, HR manager, CFO and CEO. Much of your own time, energy, and money are invested in building your practice. That’s why it’s important to know that your practice, just like you, can be named in a malpractice lawsuit. 





There are two main business entity malpractice coverage types: Separate Limits Coverage and Shared Limits Coverage. 





    

  • Separate Limits Coverage allows defense costs and indemnity payments to be paid on behalf of your practice ­separately from your individual policy limits. You may qualify for this option if you own all or a portion of your practice.
    • 






    

  • Shared Limits Coverage means defense costs and indemnity payments will be paid on behalf of both you and your practice under one shared set of limits. This may be the right option for you if you have a solo corporation with no employed or contracted dental associates.
    • 






MedPro Group offers competitive business entity malpractice insurance solutions to help protect you and your practice. 





Joining a Group Practice as an Associate





Associate dentists, employed by practice owners, may get malpractice coverage from their group practice. If you don't understand the coverage terms set by your employer, request a copy of the policy.





Whether you’re full-time or part-time, your employer's policy may not satisfy your coverage needs. Depending on employer preference, you may be able to purchase individual coverage out of your own pocket.





Retiring from a Practice





As a retired dentist, you remain at risk for malpractice claims, even years after treatment. Tail coverage is especially important at this stage in your career if you were previously covered under a Claims-made policy. 





Some carriers, like MedPro Group, offer free tail upon retirement, regardless of your age. To qualify for free tail upon retirement with MedPro, you must:





    

  • Be fully retired
    • 




  • Have a retroactive date at least 48 months prior to the date of retirement
    • 




  • Be insured by the company for 12 months on a mature Claims-made policy
    • 






With free tail from MedPro, you can retire earlier with ease and peace of mind.





Other Policy Factors





Consider these additional aspects of a policy before signing on the dotted line.





Policy Limits: The maximum amount an insurer is willing to pay for a claim filed against you.





    

  • For Claims-made coverage, you must renew your policy annually to remain protected by claims, even if the incident happened in the past when you had coverage.
    • 






    

  • Occurrence coverage provides a separate set of limits for each year you buy the policy. These limits never expire. If someone files a claim, you will still be covered by your policy from the year of the incident.
    • 






No matter the coverage type, make sure your limits are high enough to protect you throughout your career. Certain risks are better supported by higher limits. Consult with an insurance expert to determine how high your limits should be to best suit your practice.





Additional Coverages: Added policy benefits such as cyber liability, HIPAA coverage, audit coverage, and billing errors coverage. Remember to check these add-ons to make sure your practice is appropriately protected with the necessary additional coverage options.





Pure Consent Provision: A detail on your insurance policy that determines whether you have the right to refuse to settle a claim. Make sure the consent provision in your policy gives you that power without exceptions.





Learn more about how these factors play into choosing a policy in our Guide to Malpractice Insurance.





Need Additional Support? MedPro Group Is Here to Help.





Before deciding on a policy, it's best to consult a professional who specializes in malpractice insurance for dentists. Experts at MedPro can help you navigate the complexities of choosing a policy so that you’re confident in your decision. With over 125 years of malpractice experience, you can rest assured knowing MedPro Group will protect your good name.





To get started, schedule a free consultation or get a quote today.


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Understanding the parts of a dental malpractice policy can help dentists make informed decisions about their insurance. This article breaks down the key components of malpractice coverage so dentists can get a clearer view of how it works and the safeguards it provides.









Key Concepts        





    

  • Defining dental malpractice insurance
    • 




  • The components of a malpractice insurance policy
    • 




  • Considerations for choosing a carrier
    • 










As a dentist, understanding the details of your malpractice insurance policy is crucial. It can help you better protect your practice, your reputation, and your career.





In this article, you will learn about the parts of a dental malpractice insurance policy. Doing so can help you make informed decisions and get the right coverage for your professional needs. Whether you're an experienced dentist or just starting out, this guide can help you understand your malpractice insurance better.





What is malpractice insurance for dentists?





Dental malpractice insurance is a type of professional liability insurance. It's designed to protect dentists from financial loss due to claims of wrongdoing. These claims can arise from alleged negligence, errors, or omissions when providing dental services.





A malpractice policy is more than just a safety net. It's a crucial tool for safeguarding your reputation and career in the face of potential lawsuits. Without adequate coverage, a single malpractice claim can lead to significant financial strain. That's why understanding the nuances of a dental malpractice policy is essential. It allows you to ensure that your policy provides the necessary coverage for your unique practice needs. It can also help you navigate the claims process more effectively.





The components of a dental malpractice policy





A dental malpractice policy is composed of several key aspects. Each part plays an important role in defining the scope and limitations of your coverage. The main parts of a policy typically include the declarations page, insuring agreement, exclusions, and endorsements. Each component provides specific information about your policy.





The declarations page is the first part of your malpractice policy. It provides a snapshot of your coverage. This page typically includes information such as the policyholder's name, policy period, and policy limits. It's essential to review this page carefully. It can help you understand the basic parameters of your coverage and ensure they align with your practice's needs.





The insuring agreement is the heart of your malpractice policy. It outlines the carrier's promise to provide coverage for claims arising from your professional services. This section details the circumstances under which the carrier will defend and indemnify you. Understanding the insuring agreement is crucial. It helps you grasp the extent of your coverage and the conditions under which it applies.





Exclusions are as important as the coverage itself. They define what is not covered by your policy. Common exclusions may include intentional acts, sexual misconduct, or services rendered outside the scope of your license. The exclusions section is important. It will help you identify any coverage gaps.





Endorsements can add to, remove from, or modify the standard coverage. For example, an endorsement can be added to your policy to reflect a premium credit if you are working part-time or taking an extended break from practice.





The consent-to-settle clause is a critical aspect of any malpractice policy. Under a pure consent provision, you, the policyholder, have the right to refuse to settle a malpractice claim, with no exceptions. The carrier cannot settle a claim without your consent. Keep in mind that some insurance providers offer "consent to settle" only with certain exceptions. MedPro Group – the industry’s leading carrier – offers pure consent with no exceptions.





Types of dental malpractice policies





Malpractice policies come in two main types: Claims-made and Occurrence. Understanding these types is essential when choosing the right coverage for your practice.





Occurrence coverage doesn’t end when the policy ends. If someone files a claim against you, your Occurrence policy from the year of the incident will cover you. Claims-made coverage ends when the policy ends, so you may have to buy tail coverage to stay protected for any claims made against you after the policy ends. The major differences between the two are how long they protect you and how much they cost. They both have unique benefits.





To learn more about malpractice policy types, including tail coverage, check out our Guide to Malpractice Insurance.





Choosing the right dental malpractice insurance for you





Choosing the best dental malpractice insurance requires careful consideration. It's not just about finding the most affordable policy, but the one that offers the most comprehensive coverage for your specific needs. Consider factors such as the carrier's financial stability, claims management success, and customer service. In addition, the policy's coverage limits, exclusions, and endorsements are important to take into account. Make sure the policy covers all aspects of your practice. To learn more about how to choose the right malpractice policy, read this article.





When comparing providers and policies, don't just look at the price. Consider the coverage each policy offers and whether it meets your specific needs. Your carrier should also have a great reputation and long-standing financial stability. Check reviews and ratings from independent agencies. Remember, the goal is to find a policy that offers the best protection for your practice, not just the one with the lowest price.





Several factors can influence how you choose your malpractice insurance, including how much it costs. When it comes to your malpractice insurance cost, it’s important to note that your practice location, the size of your practice, and your claims history will be factored in. Your specialty within dentistry can also affect your premiums, as some procedures are considered higher risk. It's important to fully disclose all aspects of your practice to your carrier to ensure you receive adequate coverage.





Check out this article to learn more about how the price of malpractice insurance is determined.





Feel confident in your coverage with MedPro Group





Dental malpractice insurance can seem overwhelming and confusing. With the right carrier on your side, you can ensure you get coverage tailored to your needs so you can practice with greater confidence.





With 125+ years of experience and half a million cases handled, MedPro Group is uniquely positioned to protect your good name. Secure your peace of mind by starting a quote today.


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Additional Coverage content

The Anatomy of a Dental Malpractice Policy

Dentists must make informed decisions about their malpractice insurance coverage. In this article, dentists will learn the ins and outs of a malpractice policy.

Strategies to Avoid Dental Malpractice Claims

Dental malpractice insurance is crucial for avoiding claims. In this article, learn practical tips to help your practice succeed.

Choosing the Right Malpractice Policy for Your Dental Career

As a dentist, understanding the difference between malpractice insurance policy types can help you determine which coverage is right for you.

This document does not constitute legal or medical advice and should not be construed as rules or establishing a standard of care. Because the facts applicable to your situation may vary, or the laws applicable in your jurisdiction may differ, please contact your attorney or other professional advisors if you have any questions related to your legal or medical obligations or rights, state or federal laws, contract interpretation, or other legal questions.

MedPro Group is the marketing name used to refer to the insurance operations of The Medical Protective Company, Princeton Insurance Company, PLICO, Inc. and MedPro RRG Risk Retention Group. All insurance products are underwritten and administered by these and other Berkshire Hathaway affiliates, including National Fire & Marine Insurance Company. Product availability is based upon business and/or regulatory approval and/or may differ among companies.

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