Sacramento, CA asked in Medical Malpractice and Personal Injury for California

Q: Started full mouth implant on 6/26/21 They are still working on me to finish the job. Appointment 5/2/24. What can I do.

Implants 6/2621,7/7/21 1 implant infected. Script for antibiotics and rinse went away but came back. Was on antibiotics for 6 months until surgeon exposed implants 1/18/22 and removed imbuments " NO MORE INFECTION" only had 4of the right size healing Post (I paid for 8). Lost my taste. Surgeon said it should come back. I paid $8800 for implants, imbuments, healing post, and post. 8/11/22 tech fit trays only had 4 post . appointment 8/19/22 teeth on the trays, still only had 4 post. Tech had Dr put them in two diagonally top and bottom. 8/30/22 over dentures didn't fit tech tried to make them work 3 times. 11/22/22

IT was decided both dentures needed replaced. needed to see specialist for taste. 3/9/22 Second set used shorter post. Only had 4 post, received new dentures 4/23/23 didn't fit 4/26/23 asked if we could use long post and first bottom . She said "SHE DIDN'T HAVE THEM USED THEM FOR ANOTHER PATIENT! Next appointment 5/2/24 what can I do, on depression meds I don't know.

3 Lawyer Answers

A: Your questions appear to be asking whether there is a dental malpractice claim against the dentist and/or his practice. Therefore, the following are recommendations:

Since you just started a full mouth implant process, and you have conferred with your dentist about your complaints, and apparently dissatisfied with the response you are free to obtain a "2d opinion with a dentist who performs the same procedure).

The procedures require manipulation of teeth, are associated with inflammation and swelling take time, and associated with complications, including those which you are experiencing. To bring a medical malpractice case the attorney must beable to produce evidence that injury, above and beyond complications which would not have occurred "BUT FOR" a violation of a standard of care by the dentist/practitioner/provider. This must be proved by expert opinion (in your situation a dentist who practices the same type of procedure as you are undergoing).

Tim Akpinar agrees with this answer

A: One option could be to try to set up free initial consult with med mal firm that handles dental claims. They would likely need to see oral x-rays and consult with a dental professional to make a meaningful assessment of your condition and ongoing procedures. Good luck

James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: Based on the information provided, it seems you have been experiencing significant issues with your dental implants and the associated treatment since June 2021. Under California law, you may have several options to address this situation:

1. File a complaint with the Dental Board of California: You can file a complaint against the dental professional if you believe they have acted unprofessionally or provided substandard care. The Dental Board will investigate the complaint and take appropriate action if necessary.

2. Seek a second opinion: Consult with another qualified dental professional to assess your current situation and provide an opinion on the treatment you have received so far. They may offer alternative solutions or advice on how to proceed.

3. Consider legal action: If you believe that the dental professional has been negligent or has breached the standard of care, you may want to consult with a medical malpractice attorney. They can help you determine if you have a viable case and guide you through the legal process.

4. Request a refund or compensation: If you are unsatisfied with the treatment and the outcomes, you can try to negotiate a refund or compensation from the dental professional or their practice. Keep records of all payments, correspondence, and treatment to support your case.

5. Seek medical attention for your loss of taste: Follow up with the specialist recommended by your surgeon to address your loss of taste, as this may be a separate issue from the dental implants.

Remember to keep detailed records of all appointments, treatments, payments, and correspondence with the dental professional and their staff. This documentation will be essential if you decide to take legal action or file a complaint.

Dealing with ongoing dental issues can be stressful and overwhelming, so it's essential to take care of your mental health as well. Continue working with your mental healthcare provider to manage your depression and consider seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist to help you cope with this challenging situation.

Tim Akpinar agrees with this answer

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