Clayton, NJ asked in Medical Malpractice for New Jersey

Q: Do I have a dental malpractice case due to root canal concerns raised by DMD and Endodontist?

In November 2021, I underwent a dental procedure by a local DDS (this was confirmed by the DMD in Sept23 by reviewing Insurance EOBs). In September 2023, I consulted a DMD in my college town due to a discolored tooth. X-rays revealed internal absorption, abscess, and capping of a live tooth, linked to the prior root canal. Urged by the DMD, I visited an endodontist (DDS) who found possible irregularities and suspected a foreign object in the tooth due to a straight object being on the x-ray (not normal - possibly a file) and a badly performed root canal in general compared to a good one. A 3D scan was ordered for further assessment, I am still waiting on the results, but if the Endondist is not able to save my tooth, the only resort is the removal of my #4 tooth. Seeking advice on potential medical malpractice against the initial dentist due to concerns about the quality of the prior dental work, and the opinions of both the Endodtist and DMD I visited.

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1 Lawyer Answer

A: Yes it is a potential case.

Medical malpractice means that a doctor violated the standard of care. A bad outcome is not enough. Another doctor would be needed to evaluate what the doctors did.

Consult with experienced malpractice attorneys in the state where this occurred.

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