All UK dental professionals must have appropriate indemnity or insurance in place, but not all cover works in the same way. Before accepting or changing a role, dentists should understand whether their protection is discretionary or contractual, whether it is occurrence-based or claims-made, and whether additional run-off cover may be needed after they leave a practice.
Discretionary Indemnity vs. Contract of Insurance
The UK dental indemnity market has historically been dominated by mutual defence organisations (such as Dental Protection, the DDU, and MDDUS), which provide discretionary indemnity. Under this model, there is no strict contractual guarantee of cover for a specific claim; rather, assistance is provided at the discretion of the mutual, supported by a historical track record of member defence. Crucially, cover for incidents occurring during active membership generally continues even after the clinician leaves the organisation. Conversely, some contemporary providers offer a regulated contract of insurance, which provides contractually guaranteed terms but is structured differently regarding claim triggers.
Occurrence-Based vs. Claims-Made Policies
Occurrence-based: this structure covers clinical incidents that occurred during the active policy period, irrespective of when the legal claim is formally initiated. Clinicians do not require supplemental cover upon retirement, extended leave, or when switching providers.
Claims-made: this structure covers only those claims formally made while the policy remains active. Should the clinician switch providers or cease practice, purchasing run-off (tail) cover is mandatory to remain protected against claims arising from past clinical treatment. Failure to budget for this can result in substantial, unexpected liabilities.
Practitioners should check whether their cover is discretionary or contractual, whether it is occurrence-based or claims-made, and whether it includes adequate run-off, vicarious liability or practice-entity defence provisions. This is general information only and is not financial, legal or insurance advice.
Frequently asked questions
What indemnity cover do UK dentists need?
Dentists must have appropriate indemnity or insurance in place, but the structure and scope of cover can vary significantly.
What is the difference between occurrence-based and claims-made cover?
Occurrence-based cover responds to incidents during the policy period, while claims-made cover only responds if the claim is made while cover is active.
Why does run-off cover matter?
Run-off cover may be needed after switching provider, retiring or leaving practice if a claims-made policy applies.
Related reading: associate contract guidance, tax status guidance and CQC registration guidance.
Secured your indemnity? Ensure your clinical future is equally secure. View our permanent associate vacancies at Horizon Dental Jobs.