What Is Dental Malpractice & Do You Have a Case?

How to Determine If You Were the Victim of Dental Malpractice

When you go to a dental appointment, you put faith in the dentist and hygienist that they will perform the cleaning or other procedure with a reasonable degree of care. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. In some instances, a dental professional acts negligently causing severe harm to their patient.

At The Beasley Firm, we represent individuals who have suffered injury as a result of dental malpractice. We have recovered millions on behalf of injured parties throughout Pennsylvania and will work tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome in your case. If you have sustained harm because of a dental professional’s negligence, contact our office at (215) 866-2424 to schedule a free consultation.

What Is Dental Malpractice?

As with medical malpractice, not all mistakes that a dental professional makes are considered malpractice. Malpractice occurs when the dentist, hygienist, or other staff member acts negligently. 

To prove negligence in a dental malpractice claim you will need to show:

• You were a client of the dentist (dental-patient relationship);
• The dentist breached the duty of care that they owed you (they did not follow the standard of care);
• The breach of the standard of care caused your injuries; and
• You suffered injury-related losses (damages).

Dental malpractice claims are complex and should be handled by an experienced attorney. An attorney can help you understand your rights and determine whether you have a valid claim for damages. 

What Are Common Forms of Dental Malpractice?

Dental malpractice can come in a variety of forms. Any time that a dental professional fails to act in a way that a dentist of similar training and skill would, then it may arise to malpractice. 

Common forms of dental malpractice:

• Failure to diagnose a dental condition including gum disease or cancer
• Botched tooth extraction
• Leaving a foreign object inside a patient’s mouth
• Lack of informed consent
• Improper surgical technique resulting in nerve damage
• Anesthesia errors
• Complications during root canal
• Failure to supervise

Dental malpractice can cause serious health problems including infection and temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ). You should always get a second opinion if you feel that your dentist acted negligently and consult with an attorney to determine your legal options.

What to Do If You Suspect Dental Malpractice

If you suspect dental malpractice you should collect all documents and evidence that may help prove your case. Any dental records, treatment plans, and other information should be shared with your attorney. Your medical records may be crucial in proving that the dentist acted negligently.  

Hiring a Dental Malpractice Lawyer in Philadelphia

Did you suffer harm as a result of a dentist’s negligence? Contact our office at (215) 866-2424 to schedule a free consultation. All dental malpractice case evaluations are free and without obligation to retain our services. 

At The Beasley Firm, we have over 60 years of experience helping individuals obtain compensation after they have been injured due to another person’s negligence. Do not wait. Call now to get started. There are no fees unless we win.