Medico-Legal Implications and Risk Management Strategies in Orthodontic Practice: An Analytical Literature Review

Introduction: Orthodontic practice, though often considered low-risk compared with other dental specialties, is increasingly exposed to medico-legal challenges shaped by the volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) environment of modern healthcare. The aim of this review was to identify the underlying causes and typologies of malpractice claims in orthodontics. Methods: This narrative review synthesizes evidence from 2010–2024 on malpractice allegations and risk management strategies in orthodontics, with attention to the clinical, ethical, and legal dimensions. Results: The analysis of the included articles identified the most common types of malpractice allegations and the share of malpractice allegations of orthodontists in relation to other specialties; the main risks of orthodontic practice were identified, as well as risk management strategies in orthodontics. The findings highlight that most malpractice allegations are not related to medical/clinical errors, but to ethical–legislative, behavioral/relational, and perceptual/aesthetic vulnerabilities. Conclusions: This review highlights the need for physicians to focus on the acquisition of transversal skills, to have the ability to understand, adapt and respond to the rational and emotional needs of patients. This is essential in an ever-changing world, supporting healthcare professionals in maintaining professional safety. This review opens a relevant research direction on the role and impact of digital technology in the orthodontist–patient relationship, having the ability to influence the dynamics of this therapeutic relationship and the perception of the treatment outcome.