Most people do not particularly enjoy dental visits. For some, the fear is almost paralyzing, and they avoid dental care until they experience a severe problem. But going to the dentist is a vital part of protecting overall health.

While the treatment goes as expected in most cases, there are times when a patient is left suffering due to dental malpractice. It is when the negligence of a dentist or dental hygienist results in serious injury. You can sue a dental practitioner for poor dental care.

1. Improperly Sterilized Equipment

Sterilization is vital in any medical practice and especially so in dentistry. With the equipment that goes into the patient’s mouth, it is easy to spread germs. Failure to sterilize correctly can cause diseases and infections to spread.

2. Issues of Misdiagnosis

Failing to diagnose a condition such as gum disease can cause the infection to worsen, escalating to periodontitis. You can argue that a dentist was negligent when they missed signs of the disease. There is a malpractice case when a patient is put through procedures that are not necessary.

3. Delays in Treatment

Unwarranted or unnecessary delays in treatment can lead to severe infections. It is one thing when the delay is caused by the patient and another when it is on the dentist’s side. If negligence or errors cause delays in treatment, it can be considered dental malpractice.

4. Problems With Anesthesia

Many dental procedures are painful, so most people require anesthesia. Unfortunately, there are side effects associated with anesthesia. Injecting the drug incorrectly can cause severe injury, such as nerve damage. Failing to administer anesthesia correctly is considered malpractice.

5. Negligence From Dental Employees

A visit to the dentist usually involves interaction with multiple people, which can lead to infection or injury. If one of the employees at the clinic commits malpractice, it is possible to sue the dentist. Dentists can be considered negligent for failing to train or oversee their staff.

6. Unnecessary Teeth Extractions

Tooth extraction may be required in some cases, but it is not always necessary. The unnecessary procedure can lead to infections, and it can also increase the cost of treatment. Removing a tooth that can be saved can constitute negligence, which is a malpractice case.

7. Severed Nerves

Severed nerves during oral surgery can result in infections causing permanent damage. Infections usually occur due to a lack of diagnosis or delayed treatment. The negligence can necessitate a suit against the dentist or oral surgeon.

8. Dental Implant Infections

There are instances when dental implants cause infections. Postoperative infections after dental implant procedures can lead to severe damage or death. Failing to provide follow-up care or proper instructions can constitute dental malpractice.

Other dental malpractice can be due to using substandard dental devices and complications associated with orthodontics. Some patients experience adverse drug reactions when contraindicated medications are administered. It can lead to severe infections or fatalities. Lack of informed consent can also be considered dental malpractice. You can sue if you can prove that your dentist’s actions led to infection or injury.

For more on infections caused by dental malpractice, visit Arizona Dental Law Group at our Scottsdale, Arizona office. Call (602) 833-4200 to schedule an appointment today.