Few people look forward to a visit to the dentist. Although most dentists are highly skilled professionals that strive to make your visit as comfortable as possible, there is always the exception to the rule.
Few people look forward to a visit to the dentist. Although most dentists are highly skilled professionals that strive to make your visit as comfortable as possible, there is always the exception to the rule. What happens when you get more than you bargained for from your dental appointment in the form of negligence or injury?
Malpractice can be defined as:
“The improper, illegal, or negligent treatment by a medical professional causing injury or loss to their patient.”
You may have gone to your dentist to have a toothache investigated, to have a bad tooth pulled, or to have some cosmetic work done. However, if you find that you have been injured as a result of your treatment, you could have a dental malpractice case on your hands.
Dentists, along with all medical professionals, are obligated to provide a minimum duty of care to all of their patients. Put plainly; it is the job of doctors, nurses, dentists, and support staff to give their best care to all patients equally and without exception. If you feel that you have been a victim of dental malpractice, you should seek the professional guidance of the malpractice specialists at Tinker Law Firm.
Examples of Dental Malpractice
This list is in no way inclusive of all issues related to dental malpractice but includes the most common types of cases that have been brought to courts.
Wrong Procedure
An incorrect tooth is pulled or the wrong procedure is performed.
Failure To Diagnose
Issues such as oral cancer or heart disease are not diagnosed following examination.
Infection
As a result of incorrect procedures being applied, the patient develops a damaging infection following a dental procedure.
Damage To Jaw & Tissues
As a result of dental work the jaw, inner cheeks, or gums are permanently damaged.
Left Bandages
Gauze or bandaging is left following a procedure when not necessary.
Anesthesia Complications
Side effects and injuries from dental anesthetic can include an allergic reaction, nerve damage, heart failure, seizures, coma, breathing issues, stroke.
Legal Help
Malpractice cases can be difficult for patients to navigate without the advice of a professional attorney. If you have been injured or experienced loss due to your dentist's negligence, it’s a good idea to get some legal help.
A malpractice attorney can help you build a solid case, collect evidence, and work together with the courts and insurance companies on your behalf. You are more likely to receive a fair compensation package from your malpractice suit if you consult an attorney.
Considerations For Compensation
There is no set limit to compensation in malpractice cases. Each situation is different, and the level of compensation is subject to many considerations. Some of the factors that go into the decision for compensation include:
The severity of the dental injury
Amount of pain and suffering
Permanent damage
Can the injury or loss be replaced or fixed
Future complications and expected expenses or hardships
Pre-existing conditions
No one likes going to the dentist, but it is a necessary part of regular health care. If you believe that you are a victim of dental malpractice, it’s time for you to get the compensation you deserve.
Talk to a professional lawyer that specializes in handling malpractice issues to help you build your case.