
Many people become uneasy when they have to see the dentist, as they worry about pain associated with the dental procedure. The idea of a root canal, crown or oral surgery makes most people become tense. Malpractice, however, is usually not even a thought for most dental patients. Mistakes are frequently made by dentists that can result in permanent injuries to the patient. It has been estimated that in 2006, one out of every 7 reportable malpractice cases involved a dental professional. Dental errors can be painful and devastating. Some dental patients who are victims of malpractice are not aware of their legal rights.
Dentists owe their patients the duty to provide a standard level of care that is consistent with the dental industry. When this duty is not met, the patient can suffer. Dental malpractice refers to lack of reasonable care or negligence by a dental professional. Types of dental malpractice injuries can include anything from a damaged nerve on the tongue to painful complications resulting from oral surgery. These are preventable medical conditions.
Dental malpractice can take a variety of forms and it is often difficult for the patient to identify when it has occurred. Some of the most common dental malpractice cases involve the following:
• Failure to diagnose periodontal disease
• Failure to diagnose oral cancer
• Damage to the nerves located on the tongue, jaw, lip or chin
• Oral surgery mistake
• Complications from a crown or bridge
• Infection
• Complications from anesthesia
• Misdiagnosis
• Permanent numbness in the tongue
• Extraction of the wrong teeth
If you feel that you have been the victim of dental malpractice, you may be able to recover damages for your injuries. You may be compensated for lost wages, both past and present, medical bills, physical pain and suffering, inconvenience, disfigurement and mental suffering. It is important to note that to have a successful dental malpractice case, you must show that the injury was the direct result of incompetence or negligence of the dental professional and that you suffered as a result. For example, if you suffered a permanent loss or disfigurement or if you were not able to return to work, you may be able to hold the dentist responsible.
An experienced dental malpractice attorney will be able to review your case to help you determine if dental malpractice occurred. Not every injury is the result of malpractice, which is why you should seek legal advice following the incident. Contact Tavss Fletcher for a legal consultation at (757) 625-1214.
Tavss Fletcher
RBC Centura
555 East Main Street
14th Floor
Norfolk, VA 23510
Phone: 757.625.1214
Fax: 757.622.7295
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