Receiving the proper dental care in Houston should be a basic expectation for patients. However, not every dentist gets it right when providing care. And, in some cases, dentists may not adhere to the ethical guidelines and practices required to safeguard your health.
Whether you were victimized by professional negligence or outright malpractice, you have the right to seek legal assistance to recover damages. Partnering with a dedicated team that practices personal injury law can help strengthen your claim.
Learn about the benefits of working with a dental malpractice lawyer Houston residents can use to their advantage to receive fair compensation after being wronged.
Understanding Dental Malpractice
Dental malpractice occurs when a dental professional (e.g. a dentist, a dental hygienist, an anesthesiologist, or another staff member) causes harm to a patient. The damage could be caused by negligence, incompetence, or failure to follow standard procedures.
This can happen through various types of dental malpractice, such as incorrect tooth extraction, improper treatment of cavities, the wrong installation of bridges and crowns, misdiagnosis of oral cancer, using unsanitary dental tools, or improper dental treatment leading to nerve damage.
Common Types of Dental Malpractice Cases
Let’s review some common types of dental malpractice cases that a lawyer can help you with.
Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis
- Impact of Late Detection: The failure to identify serious conditions like oral cancer can make treatment more challenging and costly, while potentially putting a patient’s health at risk.
- Common Symptoms Overlooked: Symptoms such as persistent sores, difficulty swallowing, or unexplained changes in oral tissues can indicate serious conditions. Dental professionals must recognize these signs and take action – otherwise, they place patients at risk.
Improper Tooth Extraction
- Risks of Nerve Damage: Using incorrect techniques during tooth extractions can lead to nerve damage, potentially causing numbness or chronic pain. Understanding anatomy and employing precise methods are vital for safe extractions.
- Complications from Excessive Bleeding: An overzealous dentist may improperly extract a tooth, causing excessive bleeding and complications like dry sockets.
Inadequate Dental Procedures
- Consequences of Outdated Methods: Utilizing outdated techniques or unsanitized tools can lead to ineffective treatment outcomes. Staying current with dental advancements and healthcare needs is essential for ensuring patient safety.
- Importance of Sterilization: Failing to follow proper sterilization protocols can increase the risk of infections. Dental practitioners who do not follow strict infection control guidelines may expose their patients to health risks.
Negligent Orthodontic and Implants
- Long-term Effects of Improper Fitting: Errors in fitting braces or aligners can lead to misalignment, bite issues, and prolonged treatment times. Dentists who do not monitor changes and make proper adjustments could cause long-term dental damage.
- Improper Treatment: Dentists who do not properly place crowns, bridges, and other implants could cause harm to patients. If the affected teeth are not restored, there could be lingering damage that lasts for years.
Anesthesia Errors
- Life-threatening Consequences: Administering improper dosages of anesthesia during procedures such as wisdom teeth removal can lead to severe complications, including respiratory distress or cardiac events.
- Monitoring During Procedures: All staff involved in this type of procedure have an obligation to monitor a patient’s condition to prevent adverse reactions. Dental staff who neglect to follow safety protocols may expose patients to extreme risk.
The Impact of Dental Malpractice
Victims of dental malpractice in Houston often face more than just physical pain. The psychological and financial impact can be significant, with many enduring emotional distress, lost wages due to inability to work, and extensive medical bills trying to recover from the injury.
The challenge for many victims is knowing what to do. Many victims don’t want to pursue dental malpractice claims against a dentist, as they simply don’t think it’s worth the time and stress. That’s why it’s important to work with an attorney who can help intervene on your behalf.
Why You Need a Dental Malpractice Attorney
Navigating the complexities of dental malpractice claims can be daunting. A specialized dental malpractice attorney can guide you through the legal process, helping you build a strong case. Our personal injury lawyers are equipped to handle everything from gathering evidence to representing you in court.
What Can a Dental Malpractice Lawyer Do for You?
- Evaluate Your Case: At Potts Law Firm, we offer a free consultation to discuss the specifics of your situation. We’ll understand what happened and determine whether you have a case worth pursuing.
- File a Dental Malpractice Claim: We ensure all necessary documentation is complete and accurate when filing a malpractice claim against the dentist.
- Negotiate Settlements: Our team of lawyers will advocate on your behalf and work toward fair compensation to cover your loss and suffering.
- Provide Legal Representation: We will defend your personal rights and present the strongest case possible on your behalf if the case goes to court.
How to Choose the Right Lawyer in Houston
When selecting a Houston dental malpractice lawyer, consider factors such as experience, track record in medical malpractice cases, and client testimonials. Potts Law Firm is known for our commitment to justice and expertise in handling complex dental malpractice cases.
Key Attributes of Effective Dental Malpractice Lawyers
- Specialized Knowledge: We understand the nuances of dental care and malpractice laws.
- Compassionate Approach: Our attorneys empathize with victims while aggressively pursuing your rights.
- Proven Success: We have a track record of successful settlements and verdicts in personal injury cases, having recovered more than $1B for our clients.
Taking Action as a Victim of Medical Malpractice
If you are a victim of dental malpractice in Houston, time is of the essence. Prompt action can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. You will want to reach out to one of our attorneys as quickly as possible to explore your options.
Steps to Take When Suspecting Dental Malpractice
- Document Everything: Keep records of all dental procedures, communications and recommendations from your dentist, and expenses incurred.
- Seek a Second Opinion: Get another dental professional’s evaluation of your condition to help validate that you were a victim of dental malpractice.
- Consult a Lawyer: Schedule a free consultation with our law firm to discuss your case with a dental malpractice attorney.
- File a Claim: We will help you initiate the legal process to seek compensation for your damages.
Dental Malpractice Lawyer Houston: Here to Serve You
Your health and well-being are paramount. If you’ve suffered from negligent dental treatment, know that you are not alone. With the right legal support, you can hold responsible parties accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.
Contact our team today for a free consultation. Find a dental malpractice lawyer Houston residents can rely on to help reclaim your health and peace of mind.