Implant maintenance in general dental practice: dento-legal considerations for the general dental practitioner

Before implants are placed, the patient, as part of the consent process, should understand the risks of the treatment but also the importance of a lifelong maintenance programme. This is particularly important if the patient is at risk of periodontitis. There should be arrangements in place for the patient's ongoing care and general dental practitioners who look after the patient need to appreciate their duty of care in monitoring the implants. Excellent record-keeping and valid consent are important factors in delivering care and can also very much help assist a defence in the event of a civil claim or a regulatory investigation.