Going to the dentist is a daunting experience for many.
Whether you have sensitive teeth or you’re struggling with a fear of the dentist, you’re not alone. While most dental appointments last only a few minutes and involve only quick, painless checks, things may go wrong.
From extractions to fillings, more advanced procedures can be painful – or may even result in complications. Your dentist will always make you aware of the risks beforehand, but here’s what you should know about the potential worst-case scenario.
- Common dental errors
In dentistry, some mistakes are more common than others. A few of the most frequently reported errors include:
- Failed procedures: Whether due to inexperience, genuine mistakes or faulty equipment, dental procedures can occasionally fail or worsen a patient’s condition.
- Nerve damage: During procedures like extractions, root canals and implant placements, tools used by dentists can occasionally damage the trigeminal nerve, which runs through the jaw. It’s usually a result of incorrect positioning or drilling too deep.
- Poor quality: When someone visits their dentist for implants or crowns, they expect a high-quality job to be done. Unfortunately, the overall look might not always meet widely accepted standards.
- How to tell if something’s gone wrong
If you’ve been to the dentist and you feel like something isn’t quite right with the treatment you received, it’s worth investigating. When you’ve paid for a service, you expect professional care and expert-level advice.
There are a few telltale signs of negligent treatment, including:
- Severe pain: Some pain is normal, but if your pain is intense or won’t go away with over-the-counter pain relief, you should get back in touch with your dentist.
- Infection: While infection can happen by chance after a procedure, it may be the result of improper care and attention. In extreme cases, you could develop a dental abscess.
- Misalignment: If your lower and upper teeth don’t line up properly, your dentist could be to blame. This is possible for those who’ve been wearing braces or received corrective treatment.
- What to do if you’re concerned
Whether you pay privately or use the NHS for your dental treatment, you’re entitled to professional-level treatment. Your dentist legally owes you a duty of care, meaning that every treatment should be carried out safely and in line with nationally accepted standards.
It’s worth seeking a second opinion if you’re sure that something has gone wrong with your treatment. To find a sense of closure, you may choose to consult lawyers who specialise in dental negligence claims. They will be able to guide you to a favourable outcome.
Going to the dentist can be stressful enough, even if your treatment is successful. But if you’ve suffered avoidable harm due to substandard care, it’s time to seek justice and advocate for quality treatment in the future.
