Medical mistakes are not uncommon. In fact, some researchers say that medical errors are the third leading cause of death in this country. But do dental mistakes count as medical malpractice?
The reality is that dentists are medical professionals, and if their negligence causes harm to a patient, then they could face a medical malpractice claim.
Types of Dental Malpractice
Dentists are medical professionals. They go through years of schooling just like doctors and other medical practitioners, and they are expected to uphold a certain standard of medical care when treating any patient (Chapter 33 of the Pennsylvania State Code). This includes treatment for any type of procedure, from teeth cleaning to reconstructions.
Unfortunately, dentists can make mistakes just like any other medical professional. When a dentist makes a preventable medical error, meaning that they failed to uphold the standard of medical care expected of them, they could face a medical malpractice claim.
Dental malpractice is medical malpractice. They are one and the same, and the procedures for recovering compensation and these situations are also the same.
Some of the most common types of medical mistakes that occur in dentistry include the following:
- Failing to diagnose or treat a condition
- Installing defective dental products
- Negligently performing any dental work
- Failing to detect malformations or oral disease
- Failing to obtain a patient medical history
- Failing to update a patient medical history
- Failing to refer individuals to other medical professionals if a serious medical condition is suspected
- Overlooking potentially malignant lesions or failing to diagnose cancers
- Improper use of dental equipment, causing patient injury
These are certainly not the only ways that dental errors can occur. If you suspect that you have been injured due to the mistakes made by your dentist or any member of their team, reach out to an attorney for an evaluation of your case immediately.
Compensation Available for Dental Malpractice
Reaching success in a dental malpractice case is challenging. It is crucial to have a skilled Philadelphia injury lawyer by your side who can examine the facts of the case and help you recover the compensation you may be entitled to. Your attorney will handle the investigation into the incident and ensure that you are evaluated by trusted medical and dental professionals.
A medical malpractice lawyer in Philadelphia will be responsible for filing the case in court and handling all of the procedural issues that arise. Your lawyer will handle the negotiations with the other parties and represent you in court if a jury trial becomes necessary.