Tooth extractions are among the most common dental procedures, typically performed to remove damaged or impacted teeth. While most extractions are straightforward and safe, complications can sometimes arise due to improper technique or negligence, leading to pain, infection, and long-term oral health issues. If you’ve experienced complications from a tooth extraction, knowing your rights and the steps you can take to seek justice and compensation is crucial.

Common Complications from Tooth Extractions

Although tooth extractions are routine procedures, complications can still occur, particularly when the dentist fails to follow proper protocols. Some of the most common issues include:

1. Infection

• Bacteria can enter the extraction site if the area isn’t adequately sterilized or if post-operative instructions aren’t followed. Symptoms of infection include swelling, redness, fever, and persistent pain.

2. Dry Socket

• A dry socket occurs when the blood clot that forms after extraction becomes dislodged or dissolves, exposing the bone and nerves. This can cause severe pain and delay healing.

3. Nerve Damage

• Improper extraction techniques can damage the nerves near the extraction site, leading to numbness, tingling, or pain in the lips, tongue, chin, or gums. In some cases, this damage can be permanent.

4. Excessive Bleeding

• While some bleeding is normal, excessive or prolonged bleeding may indicate an issue, such as an underlying health condition or improper surgical technique.

5. Sinus Perforation

• The dentist must be careful not to damage the sinus cavity when upper teeth are extracted. A sinus perforation can lead to sinus infections, persistent pain, and difficulty breathing.

Steps to Take if You Experience Complications from Tooth Extractions

If you’ve suffered complications from a tooth extraction, acting quickly to protect your health and legal rights is essential. Here’s what you should do:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

• If you’re experiencing severe pain, excessive bleeding, or symptoms of infection, contact your dentist or an oral surgeon immediately. Early intervention can prevent further complications.

2. Document Your Symptoms

• Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, including when they started and how they’ve progressed. Take photos of any visible issues, such as swelling or signs of infection.

3. Request Your Dental Records

• Obtain copies of your dental records, including X-rays, treatment notes, and any correspondence with your dentist. This information is crucial for evaluating whether the standard of care was met.

4. Get a Second Opinion

• Consult another dental professional to assess your condition and determine whether the complications were due to negligence or improper technique.

5. Contact a Dental Malpractice Attorney

• An experienced dental malpractice attorney can help you understand your legal options, assess the strength of your case, and guide you through the process of filing a claim.

How to Prove Dental Malpractice in Tooth Extraction Cases

Proving dental malpractice in cases of complications due to tooth extractions can be complex. You must demonstrate that the dentist’s actions fell below the accepted standard of care and that these actions directly caused your injuries. Here are the critical elements required to prove your case:

1. Establish the Standard of Care

• Expert testimony is often needed to define the standard of care that should have been followed and how the dentist deviated from this standard.

2. Demonstrate the Breach of Duty

• You must show that the dentist’s actions, or lack thereof, were negligent and directly caused your complications.

3. Show Causation

• It’s necessary to prove that your injuries resulted from the dentist’s breach of duty and not from another underlying condition or unrelated issue.

4. Prove Damages

• You’ll need to document the impact of the complications on your life, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Finding the Right Legal Support

Choosing the right attorney is crucial for a successful dental malpractice claim. Look for an attorney who:

• Specializes in Dental Malpractice: They should have extensive experience handling cases involving dental negligence and extraction complications.
• Offers a Free Consultation: A reputable attorney will provide a free initial consultation to review your case and discuss your legal options.
• Has a Strong Track Record: Check for positive client reviews and a high success rate in similar cases.

Conclusion

Complications from tooth extractions can lead to significant pain and long-term health issues. If you’ve been a victim of dental malpractice, you have the right to seek compensation and justice. By understanding the common complications, taking immediate action, and consulting a qualified dental malpractice attorney, you can protect your rights and take steps toward recovery.

How Malpractice Dental Claims Can Help You

At Malpractice Dental Claims, we specialize in helping victims of dental malpractice. We understand the challenges and frustration of dealing with a failed dental implant, and we are here to help you navigate the complex legal process to seek the compensation you deserve.

Our team will work with dental malpractice experts to build a strong claim on your behalf. We aim to hold negligent professionals accountable and help you recover the costs of corrective treatments, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Remember, we only get paid when you get paid. Call us today at (516)974-3667 or schedule online for a free consultation, and let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve!

This website is designed for general information only. It should not be construed as formal legal advice or the formation of a lawyer/client relationship.