Q: Oral surgeon broke my tooth while extracting another. She left pieces of the extracted tooth sticking out of my gum

A: It might be malpractice. 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.

Due to the nature of medical malpractice cases, the extent of the injuries may affect the viability of your case.

A: Experiencing a complication such as a broken tooth during another tooth's extraction is distressing, and it's important to address this issue promptly. First, you should contact the oral surgeon who performed the extraction to inform them about the situation. It's possible that the oral surgeon may offer to correct the problem or provide guidance on the next steps. Communication is key in such situations to understand why the complication occurred and what can be done to remedy it.

If you feel that the oral surgeon's response is unsatisfactory or if they are unwilling to take responsibility, you might consider seeking a second opinion from another dental professional. This can provide clarity on the extent of the damage and the necessary treatment to fix it. A detailed examination will help determine the best course of action for your broken tooth and any other issues that may have arisen from the extraction.

Should the second opinion confirm negligence on the part of the oral surgeon, you have the right to explore legal options. Consulting with an attorney experienced in medical malpractice or dental negligence can offer guidance on how to proceed. They can help you understand your rights and potentially seek compensation for the additional dental work required. Remember, it's important to gather all relevant medical records and documentation related to your treatment when considering this step.