Dental Malpractice Insurance in Vermont

WHAT IS IT? WHO NEEDS IT? COVERAGES OFFERED

Dental malpractice insurance is a highly specialized form of professional liability insurance, and it’s specifically designed to meet the needs of dentists.

In general, most dentists who practice in Vermont ought to carry dentist insurance. Medical malpractice claims may be expensive, and there might be other consequences to not having adequate coverage.

• Property coverages
• Malpractice coverage
• Occurrence coverage

What is Dental Malpractice Insurance?

Providing dental care is honorable and potentially profitable work, but it comes with certain risks. Should a dentist make a mistake that causes harm to one of their patients, the dentist may be held financially liable for any injury that the patient suffers. Dental malpractice insurance may help dentists in Vermont protect against certain risks like this.

Dental malpractice insurance is a highly specialized form of professional liability insurance, and it’s specifically designed to meet the needs of dentists. Because this is such a specialized form of coverage, dentists should work closely with a knowledgeable insurance agent when comparing policies and choosing coverage options.

Who in Vermont Needs Dentist Insurance?

Mot dentists in Vermont should have dentist insurance, for any dentist might be faced with a malpractice claim and claims can be expensive. While there are other forms of malpractice insurance available, this usually is the most suitable option for dentists.

Importantly, this insurance might not provide all of the protection that orthodontists and oral surgeons need. Other dental professionals should consult with an insurance agent who can explore dentist and additional policy options, and recommend the best one for a given specialization.

Do Dentists Receive Malpractice Coverage From Their Employers?

Whether dentists receive malpractice coverage through an employers’ dentist insurance policy depends on the employment situation and the specifics of the employer’s policy.

Dentists who are actual employees usually receive malpractice coverage through their employer, provided that their employer carries a dentist insurance policy that offers malpractice coverage. Some employers might not have a policy, or they may have one that only provides limited protection.

If dentists do have coverage from an employer, it’s important to note that the coverage likely only extends to work that’s done for the employer. Side gigs and charitable care probably won’t fall under the protections of an employer’s policy. Dentists who do moonlight or offer pro-bono services may receive coverage for that work through another organization, or they might need to purchase their own dentist insurance.

Dentists who are hired as independent contractors are less likely to receive malpractice coverage from the organization that hires them. Some organizations might offer coverage to contracted dentists, but many won’t. Before beginning any contracted work, dentists should check their coverage situation and purchase their own policy if necessary.

Mike Bancroft is simply an amazing agent. When my business got burglarized, I was so upset and didn't know what to do. I contacted Mike and he was very prompt in calling me back and he put my mind at ease. He made me feel so much better and handled all of the paperwork immediately. His customer service is top notch and I highly recommend him to be your insurance agent!

Becci Kepnes-Letourneau

Our business was with the same trusted agent for over 20 years. Mike Bancroft offered to evaluate our policies and see if he could save us some money on both Workmen's Comp and general liability. He did, and in the process even moved us to better coverage. Mike also offers a superb quality of service. Cannot recommend highly enough.

StoryWorkz Creative

Mike Bancroft has been great to work with. He has assisted with my Business Auto, Tool Coverage, Homeowners and all other types of insurance needs. I wouldn't be surprised if they change their name to Paige, Campbell & Bancroft soon!

Lance Garrett

Extremely prompt, personable, and professional service! Despite only needing a workers' comp policy for one employee, Paige & Campbell was very receptive and ensured to shop my policy around to ensure I received a great price that was almost half of what another broker quoted me.

Jennifer L.

How Much Are Premiums for Dental Malpractice Coverage?

Dental malpractice premiums are based on multiple factors, and they frequently vary from one situation to the next. A few items that can impact premiums include a dentist’s experience, malpractice claims history and scope of work.

The easiest way to find out precisely how much dental malpractice coverage will cost in a particular situation is to request quotes from insurance companies and compare them. An independent insurance agent, who’s able to obtain quotes from multiple insurance companies, can assist with this process.

What is the Difference Between Occurrence and Claims-Made Coverage?

Dental malpractice policies can be underwritten as occurrence coverage or as claims-made coverage. The difference between the two types of policies lies in how they determine whether coverage applies to a claim.

Occurrence policies generally cover claims that occurred while the policy is in effect. Even if a claim is filed after the policy expires, claims that took place when the policy was in effect will probably still be covered.

Claims-made policies generally cover claims that are actually made within a specified window. The window normally encompasses the period that the policy is in effect plus a retroactive window.

Claims-made policies are often less expensive than occurrence policies, but they typically also provide less comprehensive coverage.

How can Dentists in Vermont Get Dental Malpractice Insurance?

For help finding dental malpractice insurance, contact the independent insurance agents of Paige & Campbell Insurance. Our agents can help you explore policy options from several insurance companies in Vermont, and we have the expertise necessary to help you select the best policy for your professional liability needs.