What is dental malpractice?
Have you had a recent appointment with your dentist that you think might be grounds for malpractice? Here’s how to find out.
There is an acceptable standard of care expected from any medical professional, and that includes dentists. In fact one out of every seven medical malpractice suits are dental. In a lot of cases the patients themselves were not aware that they had been wronged. Here are several situations which can be considered malpractice:
The first and not the obvious is the failure of the dentist to explain all available options to the patient and the risks associated with each. As a patient you must make the most informed choice and any information withheld is grounds for malpractice.
Failure to refer the patient to a specialist when such care is required.
Failing to diagnose a disease.
Causing damage and injury to the patient during a procedure.
Incorrect use of medication or anaesthetics.
Failure to conduct a thorough oral examination.
Using faulty equipment and medical supplies.
Failure to identify or control an infection.
Improper dental procedures which result in injury.
The above is not an exhaustive list. There are several more conditions which could be grounds for a malpractice suit
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Anyone who has experienced any of the above should consult a lawyer about a dental malpractice suit immediately.