What Is the Difference Between Dental Practice and Dental Malpractice Insurance

The terms “dental practice insurance” and “dental malpractice insurance” refer to two different forms of coverage that may help dentists reduce the financial burden of the risks and liabilities of their jobs. At Mikel's Insurance Services we’re happy to help explain what these terms mean and the coverages that they may offer.

What Is Dental Practice Insurance?

Dental practice insurance is a term for various insurance policies that dentists may retain to protect their finances in case of legal issues or liability claims. The following coverages may be included in a dental practice insurance package:

• General liability coverage may cover third-party risks such as customer injuries, property damage or advertising injuries.
• Medical malpractice coverage may help pay for your legal expenses and associated costs if you’re sued for misdiagnoses, errors or failing to provide a standard of care.
• Commercial property insurance may cover damages to your office, equipment and tools caused by covered perils.
• Business income coverage may cover lost income if you temporarily close your practice due to a covered incident.
• Workers’ compensation coverage may help pay for your employees’ medical expenses and lost wages after an on-the-job accident.

What Is Dental Malpractice Insurance?

Dental malpractice insurance is a specific type of medical malpractice insurance that may protect your practice, assets and employees from financial losses caused by claims of error, harm or negligence filed by a patient. You may be able to choose between the following financial protections:

• Claims-made coverage may cover patient claims filed during a policy’s coverage period if the incident also took place while insurance was active.
• Occurrence coverage may cover patient claims filed after the policy period has lapsed, as long as the incident occurred while you had coverage.
• Tail coverage may be purchased in addition to claims-made coverage. It may provide coverage after you retire or switch employment.

While dentists in California are not required to carry malpractice coverage, it’s still recommended that they do so in case of unexpected lawsuits.

Get Covered Today

Contact Mikel's Insurance Services today to learn more about our dental practice insurance offers or request a personalized quote.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.