As a population, we are increasingly seeking the medical expertise of orthodontic and cosmetic dentistry practitioners. Unfortunately, this has seen an increase in dental negligence claims. We rely on the clinical expertise of dental practitioners to diagnose and treat our oral health problems. In most cases, dentists provide safe and effective treatment, however, mistakes can occur. Dental negligence* can include poorly delivered treatment, delayed diagnosis, incorrect diagnosis, and failure to refer to a specialist.
For those patients affected by dental negligence*, the consequences can be severe and result in pain, an inability to eat, sensitivity, difficulty speaking, progression of diseases such as cancer, and loss of teeth. Dental negligence* can also lead to poor cosmetic outcomes, resulting in shame, embarrassment, anxiety, and depression. As such, it is important to consider both the physical health and mental health implications of dental negligence*.
If you have been affected by the negligence of a dental practitioner, whether a general dentist, cosmetic dentist, endodontist, orthodontist, prosthodontist, periodontist, oral and maxillofacial surgeon, or dental hygienist, our dental malpractice solicitors* can provide you with clear, sensitive, expert advice, and where appropriate we can lead you through the dental negligence compensation claim process.
What types of dental negligence* can you claim for?
It is possible to claim for a wide range of dental negligence*, including:
- Damage caused during treatment to expensive crowns and veneers
- Failure to carry out a proper oral health check
- Failure of cosmetic dental work
- Failure to diagnose a dental condition – if left undiagnosed, conditions such as periodontal disease may progress, leading to the loss of teeth and bone and swollen gums. More serious diseases such as oral cancer may also go unnoticed
- Failure to obtain proper patient consent for treatment
- Failure to fully remove part of a root during a root canal procedure
- Failure to refer a patient to another health professional
- Failure to take or review x-rays
- Injury caused during treatment
- Nerve injuries
- Poorly delivered anaesthesia leading to complications
- Poorly fitted braces leading misaligned teeth
If you are concerned that you have been the victim of dental negligence*, one of our specialist dental negligence solicitors* will be happy to advise you, in complete confidence, as to whether you have a stateable dental negligence claim*.
How to prove dental negligence
To make a successful dental negligence compensation claim*, it is essential to prove that:
- Your dental practitioner owed you a duty of care
- You suffered harm
- The negligence of your dental practitioner was responsible for the harm caused
To prove dental negligence*, our expert dental negligence solicitors will request your clinical notes, including your medical history and details of what happened to you. An expert dental witness will also need to be instructed to give us their expert opinion whether the injuries you sustained were caused by dental negligence*. They will also offer their opinion on your prognosis and your future dental care needs. At Hanahoe and Hanahoe, we work with a panel of dental experts, of differing specialities, from both Ireland and the UK. We can arrange for a dental expert witness report to be drafted, setting out whether your dentist breached his duty of care to you, the injuries you sustained and their prognosis for the future. If necessary, we can arrange for the expert witness to provide evidence and offer their clinical opinion in court.
Why Choose Hanahoe and Hanahoe?
The awarding-winning team of specialist medical and dental negligence solicitors* at Hanahoe and Hanahoe have been supporting those affected by dental malpractice* in Ireland since 1979. Our friendly, caring, and empathetic clinical negligence* team will take the time to listen to and assess your case and provide support throughout your claim. We understand the pain, suffering, and loss that can occur as a result of dental malpractice* and will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your claim. If you have suffered harm to your physical or mental health as a result of dental negligence*, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Useful information
If you have concerns about your dental treatment, here are some links you may find useful
Irish Dental Association: https://www.dentist.ie/your-oral-health/dental-complaints.6172.html
Dental Complaints Resolution Service: https://dentalcomplaints.ie/
Health Complaints: https://www.healthcomplaints.ie/specific-complaints-procedures/dental-council/