When we visit our dentist, we expect the best quality of care, resulting in a brighter, healthier smile than we came in with. But unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Whether it be due to lack of experience or a moment of distraction, dentists make mistakes. These mistakes can be accompanied by some serious health complications, as well as mounting medical bills to correct the issue. If you or a loved one have ever been injured as a direct result of dentistry mistakes, contact a medical malpractice lawyer near you. Depending on your situation and dental history, you may be able to open a successful dental malpractice claim.
What is dental malpractice?
Dental malpractice means that the dental professional who was taking care of you deviated from their normal care methods, whether intentionally or not, and you suffered a grave injury in direct relation to their actions. As the traditional definition of malpractice explains, malpractice can take place in any part of the treatment, from the consultation to improper after-care following surgery.
Common occurrences of dental malpractice include:
- Failure to diagnose or misdiagnoses of oral diseases and cancers
- Injured oral nerves
- Serious infections
- Complications with anesthesia and numbing agents like Novocain
Dental Malpractice in Michigan
Compared to other states, Michigan has a lower rate of malpractice instances, especially in dentistry. But, there still have been some major medical malpractice cases in Michigan ending in high publicity and large payouts for the former patient.
Medical Malpractice Case 1: Precancerous lesion
In 2006, a 61-year-old Michigan native found out that she had invasive skin cancer in her mouth which had reached stage four. Previously her dentist, along with a number of specialists, thought it was only a minor injury or burn resulting from a previous procedure. The verdict awarded the victim $15 million. However, she only received a portion of this amount.
Medical Malpractice Case 2: Irreparable oral nerve damage
A victim in Michigan received over $100,000 due to her dental malpractice experience which left the left side of her tongue completely numb. Originally, her dentist believed it was only temporary damage, and her tongue should heal following her procedure, and the feeling should return. However, after further investigation by other professionals, it was discovered that her nerve has been completely severed and would never heal.
These two cases resulted in extreme complications and health issues for the patients. However, you do not have to suffer to this extent to win a dental malpractice case and be awarded a hefty settlement. Something as simple as receiving a metal crown in spite of informing the dentist office of a metal allergy could result in you winning hundreds of thousands of dollars.
How can you prove you suffered at the hands of dental malpractice in Michigan?
To prove any type of medical malpractice within Michigan, you need to keep as much information regarding your treatment as possible. A comprehensive list of any health complications you may encounter following your treatment is essential. If possible, keep records of all communication between yourself, your dentist, and their office.
Once you have collected all the evidence and treatment information available to you, it is time to contact a medical attorney preferably who specializes in dental issues. Most attorney offices even offer free consultations to new clients, so there is absolutely no risk in taking that first call. Equipped with information tailored to your situation, you can make an informed decision regarding opening a claim.
If you decide to work together, your malpractice lawyer will review all the evidence in your possession and set out to search for me if he or she thinks it will not be enough to convince the court. They will also take care of all the paperwork involved with filing a claim, so all you have to do is focus on healing.
