Root canal treatment is a common dental procedure intended to save a damaged or infected tooth. While most root canal treatments are successful, errors or negligence during the procedure can lead to severe complications. At DENTAL MALPRACTICE CLAIMS, we specialize in dental malpractice cases, including those involving root canal treatment failures.
Understanding Root Canal Treatment
A root canal treatment involves removing the infected or damaged pulp inside a tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the canal, and then sealing it to prevent further infection. This procedure is typically recommended to:
- Alleviate severe tooth pain
- Treat deep decay or infection
- Save a tooth from extraction
When performed correctly, root canal treatments can relieve pain and preserve the natural tooth. However, dental malpractice during a root canal procedure can cause significant harm to the patient.
Common Types of Root Canal Malpractice
Dental malpractice occurs when a dentist fails to provide the standard of care expected in their profession, resulting in harm to the patient. Common examples of malpractice in root canal treatments include:
- Incomplete Removal of Infected Pulp: Leaving infected tissue inside the canal can cause persistent pain, infection, and eventually tooth loss.
- Failure to Properly Clean and Disinfect the Canal: Inadequate cleaning can lead to continued infection and the need for additional treatment.
- Perforation of the Tooth or Surrounding Tissues: Incorrect technique can cause damage to the tooth structure or surrounding tissues, leading to severe pain and complications.
- Overfilling or Underfilling the Canal: Incorrect sealing of the canal can result in ongoing infection or re-infection.
- Failure to Diagnose and Treat Complications: Neglecting to address complications such as abscesses or missed canals can lead to significant health issues.
