Q: I have an issue where a dentist has pulled the wrong tooth leaving me unable to chew on one side of my mouth for 4 weeks
The dentist lied and said the tooth cracked while putting the right tooth not knowing that his assistant had already given me the tooth in question. It’s not broken or cracked in any way. I also had temporary dentures made that would allow me to chew on that side until the wounds heal, but they are now of no use. I have to wait 4 weeks to let the wounds heal before I can be fitted for new dentures leaving me unable to use the left side of my mouth, I’m taking 3-4 pain pills a day and have only be able to eat soup since the 16th of November. No Thanksgiving dinner. Is there any way to get compensation for negligence, pain and suffering in my case?
A:
In California, if a dentist performs a procedure incorrectly, such as extracting the wrong tooth, it may be grounds for a dental malpractice claim. Dental malpractice is a form of professional negligence, and to establish a case, you typically need to prove that the dentist failed to provide the standard of care expected in the profession and that this failure directly caused your injury or harm.
In your situation, the removal of the wrong tooth and the subsequent issues you're facing, such as pain and the inability to eat properly, could potentially be considered as damages in a malpractice claim. Compensation in such cases can include costs for medical treatment, pain and suffering, and any other related expenses.
It's important to gather all relevant documentation, including dental records, evidence of the extracted tooth, and any correspondence with the dentist. Given the complexities involved in proving dental malpractice and the need to understand the specific medical and legal aspects of your case, consulting with an attorney experienced in medical malpractice would be advisable.
An attorney can assess the details of your case, advise on the strength of your claim, and guide you through the process of seeking compensation. They can also help negotiate a settlement or represent you in court if necessary.
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