You may need to have a tooth removed from tooth decay, pain from wisdom teeth and even for cosmetic reasons. So, as daunting as a tooth extraction can sound, it’s a standard procedure that’s undertaken often (so much so that wisdom tooth extraction is one of the most common surgical procedures in the UK). And as it’s quite a routine procedure, in most cases, it passes quickly without any issues.
However, in some unfortunate situations, there are instances in which mistakes are made, and tooth extraction can go wrong. This could be due to something unforeseen, such as the tooth fracturing mid-extraction (in which case a dentist must immediately stop unless an X-ray has been carried out on the remaining roots). In other instances, you could suffer from nerve injury or, worse, find your dentist has extracted the wrong tooth. If something has gone wrong during your tooth extraction it could be due to professional negligence from the dentist.
If you’ve suffered from unnecessary pain and ongoing dental issues as a direct result of a tooth extraction gone wrong, you may be entitled to compensation. At Farleys, we can assist you with making a claim and getting you the help you need.
Fill in our contact form below, or give us a call on 01254 606008 to speak to one of our friendly solicitors today.
How we can help with tooth extraction claims at Farleys
With over 60 years of experience to our name at Farleys, our main priority has always been to offer our clients exceptional service with a personal and dedicated approach. We have an extensive history of successfully resolving claims for tooth extraction compensation, and we understand the impact of dental negligence on your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
To begin your case, our solicitors specialising in dental negligence will sit down with you for an in-depth discussion, ensuring that we have all the details needed to provide you with tailored guidance and explore the available options. We will then examine which of these options will most likely bring you a satisfactory resolution.
What is a tooth extraction?
Tooth extraction is usually a quick and straightforward process that involves removing a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. It’s generally complete within an hour. It’s more often than not an easy procedure for an experienced dentist or oral surgeon and is done for various reasons, all of which aim to improve the patient’s oral health and overall well-being.
Prior to the extraction process, the dentist evaluates the condition of the tooth through the use of X-rays. During the procedure, the patient’s comfort is ensured by administering anaesthesia, and then the extraction takes place, which is typically painless due to the effects of anaesthesia. After the procedure is over, the dentist will provide comprehensive care instructions, including pain management and antibiotics guidance, to ensure proper healing.
What causes a failed tooth extraction?
Dental malpractice refers to cases where a dentist fails to provide the proper level of care, which can cause harm or complications for the patient. One common example is when a tooth extraction goes wrong due to the dentist’s actions (or inaction). This can happen for various reasons, such as:
- Incomplete removal
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Extraction of the wrong tooth
All of which can result in significant pain and discomfort for the patient.
However, specific circumstances are recognised by the NHS as ‘never events’. Never events are serious incidents that are entirely preventable and, as a result, should never happen under any circumstances, and wrong tooth extraction is one of these incidents.
Whatever your situation, if you believe that you have suffered due to negligence during a dental procedure, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Am I eligible to make a dental negligence claim?
If you can demonstrate that your dentist failed in their duty of care to you, you may be eligible to pursue a dental negligence claim. All healthcare providers, dentists included, are bound by a duty of care to their patients, which means they must provide a reasonable standard of care.
However, if you can provide evidence that their level of care fell below what one would reasonably expect, they likely breached their duty of care to you, giving you reliable grounds for a dental negligence claim. It’s important to note that establishing such a breach typically requires the input of medical experts with a similar or higher level of expertise and training.
Proving negligence is a difficult challenge in itself. To seek compensation, you must also demonstrate that you have suffered and endured hardship directly due to your dentist’s negligence.
To strengthen your case, it is advisable to collect a variety of supporting evidence if it’s possible, including:
- Dental records
- Witness statementsA second expert opinion
- Relevant photos (for example, depicting your injuries)
- Financial records
Contact a Specialist in Dental Negligence Claims
At Farleys, we understand that legal cases can be stressful to navigate. That’s why our solicitors offer a friendly and personable approach free from any unnecessary legal jargon so you can make an informed decision. We’ll pursue your claim on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis, so you won’t have to consider any costs unless you see results.
Whatever your experience, you can trust us to handle your dental negligence claim with respect and expertise. For free initial advice on pursuing a claim, contact our dental negligence claims solicitors today on 0330 828 3881 or contact us by email to arrange an appointment.
FAQs
What are the time limits for claiming dental negligence compensation?
Generally, you have a time limit of three years to make a claim for dental negligence.
This “limitation period” usually starts from the date when you received the dental treatment. However, the UK legal system understands that the consequences of dental negligence may not be immediately apparent, so in some instances, you may even have an additional three years from the “date of knowledge” – which is simply the date from which you became aware that you were affected by dental negligence.
However, these timeframes can be complicated to determine accurately. Therefore, at Farleys, we recommend contacting us as soon as possible once you believe you may have a claim. This way, we can work on resolving it efficiently and effectively.
How long do dental negligence claims take to resolve?
It’s difficult to give a definitive answer to this question as the time it takes to resolve a dental negligence claim can vary depending on a number of factors. Some cases can be resolved in a few weeks, while others can take much longer – even years in some cases. Generally speaking, most cases take at least a few months to resolve.
Factors such as the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries sustained, the length of time taken to gather evidence, and the dentist’s response can all significantly impact the time it takes to resolve a dental negligence claim.
It’s worth noting that many cases are settled amicably outside of court without the need for legal proceedings. However, if your case does end up going to court, you can rely on us to provide the support and guidance you need every step of the way.
What are the most common reasons for compensation claims for dentists?
Many scenarios can lead to dental negligence compensation claims, and the time it takes to resolve such cases largely depends on each case’s specific details. Some of the most common cases often include:
- Your dentist removed the wrong tooth
- Your wisdom tooth extraction has gone wrong (such as mistakes resulting in longer healing time)
- Roots are left in the gum after extraction
- You develop an infection after the tooth extraction
- You suffer a fracture to the jaw from unnecessary force
- You’re suffering a significant amount of pain or sensitivity after the procedure
- Your dentist treated you without first considering alternative
- Your dentist failed to gain informed consent
- You were not referred for additional tests you should have had
- Correct dental procedures were not followed
Why choose Farleys Solicitors?
At Farleys Solicitors, we’re a reputable firm with over 60 years of experience serving clients across the North West and nationwide. Our solicitors possess extensive industry-specific expertise to address your dental negligence questions quickly and concisely.
We understand that each case is unique at Farleys Solicitors. Therefore, in addition to advising you on the best course of action, we also offer tailored advice to meet your needs. We’ll even consider handling your case on a no-win, no-fee basis.
If you need assistance from one of our specialist dental negligence solicitors or have questions about any of our services, please don’t hesitate to contact us. You can reach us by giving us a call on 01254 606008, using the online chat feature on our website, or emailing us at info@farleys.com. We’re here to help!