How Badly Does a Dentist Have to Mess Up to be Considered Dental Malpractice?
If you believe your dentist did something wrong or failed to do something he should have done the first thing you should do is contact attorney Brendan F. Mulligan, Esquire, the dental malpractice lawyer.
When a dentist does something or fails to do something he should have done and a permanent injury occurs a patient may have a dental malpractice claim against the treating dentist.
The key factor in any potential dental malpractice claim comes down to one simple issue “how badly did the dentist mess up?”
If a situation can be remedied or repaired, it would not be considered a permanent injury. For example, if a dentist makes a poor fitting crown or denture and another dentist can redo the work this would not be a viable dental malpractice claim. The only injury in such a case would be economic loss. In situations like this we suggest that you advise the dentist, in writing, that his work had to
redone and request a refund. If the dentist fails to reimburse you, you can make a complaint to the Pennsylvania State Board of Dentistry or local dental society and they will investigate the matter. You may want to enlist the help of an attorney specializing in doctor or surgical malpractice. If dental insurance was used to pay a portion of the bill, you should also contact your insurance company. Your insurance carrier will also investigate the matter. To safeguard yourself, we always recommend that when you pay for dental services use a credit card. If you are dissatisfied with the work you can always request a charge back from your bank.
In a true dental malpractice claim there is always a permanent injury. For example, when a dentist pulls the wrong tooth, places an implant into a nerve or sinus area, lacerates your tongue or face requiring stitches or fails to prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection and you end up hospitalized requiring surgery these would be all be injuries that would be considered permanent in nature and support a win able dental malpractice claim.
Remember, if you believe you have been the victim of dental malpractice it is imperative that you contact attorney Brendan F. Mulligan, Esquire, the dental malpractice lawyer.