When To Hire a Lawyer for Dental Malpractice

When it comes to dental procedures, we all trust our healthcare providers to help us maintain a healthy smile. But what happens when something goes wrong? Dental malpractice is a serious issue that can lead to pain, suffering, and additional expenses. Knowing when to seek legal help for dental malpractice can make a significant difference in your case. Sakkas, Cahn & Weiss, LLP is a trusted law firm with years of experience. We handle medical malpractice cases, including dental malpractice. We help ensure our clients receive the best possible outcome when seeking justice for negligence or malpractice by dental professionals.

What is Considered Dental Malpractice?

Dental malpractice occurs when a dentist or dental professional fails to provide the standard of care that a reasonably prudent dentist would under similar circumstances, resulting in harm or injury to the patient. Understanding what constitutes dental malpractice is crucial for determining whether you have a valid claim. Here are some common examples of dental malpractice:

Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis

Failing to diagnose a dental condition in a timely manner can lead to severe complications. For example, if a dentist overlooks signs of oral cancer or a serious infection, the delay in treatment can cause significant harm to the patient.

Improper Treatment

This includes performing incorrect procedures, using improper techniques, or providing unnecessary treatments. For instance, extracting the wrong tooth or placing dental implants incorrectly can lead to severe pain, infection, and long-term dental issues.

Surgical Errors

Mistakes made during dental surgery, such as damaging nerves, blood vessels, or other parts of the mouth, can cause lasting damage. Common surgical errors include nerve injuries during wisdom tooth extraction or root canal procedures.

Anesthesia Errors

Administering too much or too little anesthesia, or failing to monitor the patient properly during a procedure, can result in severe complications, including allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and, in extreme cases, death.

Infections

Failing to maintain proper sterilization and hygiene standards can lead to infections. If a patient develops an infection due to unsanitary conditions or improper post-operative care instructions, the dentist may be liable for malpractice.

Failure to Obtain Informed Consent

Before performing any procedure, a dentist must inform the patient of the risks, benefits, and alternatives. If a dentist proceeds without obtaining the patient’s informed consent, and the patient suffers harm as a result, this may be considered malpractice.

Substandard Workmanship

Poor quality dental work, such as improperly fitted crowns, bridges, or fillings, can cause pain, discomfort, and further dental issues. This includes using substandard materials or failing to perform procedures to the accepted standard of care.

Medication Errors

Prescribing the wrong medication, incorrect dosages, or failing to check for potential drug interactions can lead to adverse effects and harm the patient.

If you believe you have suffered harm due to any of these forms of dental malpractice, it is essential to consult with a knowledgeable dental malpractice lawyer. At Sakkas, Cahn & Weiss, LLP, we have extensive experience in handling dental malpractice cases and can help you understand your rights and options. Our team is dedicated to providing the legal support you need to pursue compensation for your injuries and hold negligent dental professionals accountable.

When To Hire a Lawyer for Dental Malpractice

If you have experienced harm or injury due to the negligence of a dental professional, knowing when to hire a lawyer for dental malpractice can be crucial in protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. Here are key situations where you should consider consulting with a dental malpractice attorney:

Severe Injury or Complications

If you have sustained significant injuries, such as nerve damage, severe infection, or loss of teeth due to improper dental treatment, it’s essential to seek legal assistance. An attorney can help you evaluate the extent of the harm and the impact on your life.

Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis

When a dentist fails to diagnose or delays diagnosing a serious condition like oral cancer, the consequences can be life-threatening. If you believe your condition worsened due to a dentist’s oversight, an attorney can help you pursue a malpractice claim.

Incorrect or Unnecessary Procedures

If you’ve undergone incorrect or unnecessary dental procedures that resulted in pain, additional medical expenses, or further complications, it’s time to consult a lawyer. These errors can include extracting the wrong tooth or performing unnecessary surgery.

Anesthesia Errors

Mistakes with anesthesia, such as incorrect dosage or failure to monitor the patient, can cause severe reactions or complications. If you or a loved one suffered due to anesthesia errors, a lawyer can help determine if malpractice occurred.

Lack of Informed Consent

Dentists are required to inform patients of the risks, benefits, and alternatives to any procedure. If you underwent a procedure without proper informed consent and suffered harm as a result, you may have a valid malpractice claim.

Poor Quality Dental Work

Substandard dental work, such as poorly fitted crowns or improperly performed root canals, can lead to ongoing pain and the need for corrective treatment. If you experience ongoing issues due to poor dental work, it’s wise to consult an attorney.

Infection Due to Unsanitary Conditions

If you developed an infection because of unsanitary conditions in the dental office or improper sterilization of instruments, you might have grounds for a malpractice claim.

Financial Losses

Dental malpractice can result in significant financial burdens, including medical bills, lost wages, and the cost of corrective treatments. An attorney can help you recover these financial losses.

Emotional Distress

Suffering from dental malpractice can also cause emotional distress and affect your quality of life. A lawyer can help you seek compensation for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering.

Navigating a dental malpractice claim can be complex, requiring a thorough understanding of medical and legal principles. At Sakkas, Cahn & Weiss, LLP, our experienced dental malpractice attorneys are dedicated to helping you through every step of the process. We will investigate your case, gather necessary evidence, and work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. If you believe you’ve been a victim of dental malpractice, don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation.

Types of Compensation in Dental Malpractice Cases

When you suffer harm due to dental malpractice, you may be entitled to various types of compensation. Understanding the potential damages you can claim is crucial for ensuring you receive the financial recovery you deserve. Here are the primary types of compensation available in dental malpractice cases:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for medical expenses covers the cost of any treatments required to address the harm caused by dental malpractice.
• Lost Wages: If your injury has resulted in time away from work, you can claim compensation for lost wages.
• Pain and Suffering: Dental malpractice can cause significant physical pain and emotional distress. Compensation for pain and suffering aims to provide monetary relief for the physical discomfort and emotional trauma experienced due to the negligent dental care.
• Permanent Disability or Disfigurement: If the malpractice results in permanent disability or disfigurement, such as nerve damage or facial scarring, you may be entitled to additional compensation.
• Loss of Consortium: In cases where dental malpractice affects your relationship with your spouse, you may be eligible for loss of consortium damages.
• Punitive Damages: In rare cases where the dental professional’s conduct was particularly egregious or reckless, punitive damages may be awarded.
• Costs of Future Care: If your injury requires long-term care or ongoing medical treatments, you can claim compensation for the anticipated costs of future care.
• Legal Fees and Court Costs: You may also be entitled to recover the costs associated with pursuing your dental malpractice claim, including attorney fees and court costs.

Pursuing a dental malpractice claim can be complex, requiring a thorough understanding of both legal and medical issues. At Sakkas, Cahn & Weiss, LLP, our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping victims of dental malpractice secure the compensation they deserve.

How Sakkas, Cahn & Weiss Can Help

At Sakkas, Cahn & Weiss, LLP, we understand the profound impact that dental malpractice can have on your life. Navigating the legal complexities of a dental malpractice claim can be overwhelming, especially when you are dealing with the pain and complications resulting from negligent dental care. Our experienced dental malpractice lawyers are here to provide the expert legal support you need to pursue justice and secure the compensation you deserve. Here’s how we can help:

Comprehensive Case Evaluation

Our attorneys will conduct a thorough evaluation of your case to determine the validity of your dental malpractice claim. We will review your medical records, gather relevant evidence, and consult with dental experts to build a strong foundation for your case.

Expert Guidance and Advice

Dental malpractice cases involve intricate medical and legal issues. Our lawyers have extensive knowledge in both areas and will provide you with expert guidance throughout the process. We will explain your rights, outline your options, and help you make informed decisions every step of the way.

Evidence Collection and Documentation

Building a solid case requires meticulous evidence collection. We will gather all necessary documentation, including dental records, witness statements, and expert testimonies, to support your claim. Our team will ensure that every detail is thoroughly documented to strengthen your case.

Negotiation with Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who will handle all communications with the insurance companies on your behalf. We will work tirelessly to secure a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Litigation Support

If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, we are fully prepared to take your case to court. Our experienced litigators will represent you in court, presenting a compelling case to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Personalized Legal Strategy

Every dental malpractice case is unique, and we believe in providing personalized legal strategies tailored to your specific circumstances. Our attorneys will develop a customized approach that addresses your individual needs and goals, ensuring the best possible outcome for your case.

Compassionate Support

We understand the emotional and physical toll that dental malpractice can take on your life. Our team is committed to providing compassionate support and keeping you informed throughout the legal process. We are here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and stand by your side every step of the way.

At Sakkas, Cahn & Weiss, LLP, we are dedicated to holding negligent dental professionals accountable and helping victims of dental malpractice obtain the justice they deserve. If you or a loved one has been harmed by dental negligence, don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation. Let our experienced dental malpractice lawyers fight for your rights and help you secure the compensation you need to move forward with your life.

Contact a Dental Malpractice Lawyer Today

If you believe that you or a loved one has been a victim of dental malpractice, it is crucial to seek legal representation as soon as possible. A skilled dental malpractice lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact our dental malpractice lawyers at Sakkas, Cahn & Weiss, LLP today for a consultation. We will review your case, discuss your options, and work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected. Don’t wait – contact us now to get the legal help you need during this difficult time.