Can I Get Compensated for Dental Implant Failure?
Posted by AllSmiles
Last September, I cracked a tooth, and my dentist recommended extraction. Following the extraction, I experienced severe burning and tingling in my mouth despite multiple lidocaine injections. The dentist attributed this to thrush, prescribed mouthwash, and proceeded with a dental implant.
The implant placement was incredibly painful, and the placing the implant crown caused unbearable discomfort. The crown eventually fell out, and a different dentist diagnosed an infected implant. I had surgery to remove the implant and add bone grafting. Due to this ordeal, I avoided further implant procedures.
I eventually had a dental bridge placed, a process that the dentist who performed the procedure said would be painless.
Throughout this entire experience, I’ve endured significant pain, discomfort, and multiple dental appointments—over 20 in total. I’m considering seeking legal counsel due to the complications and ongoing pain, including the persistent burning sensation in my mouth.
Can I get compensated by the original dentist for the botched implant procedure and subsequent issues? I’m interested in filing a claim. Thanks. Bart
Bart,
Your heightened anxiety during the dental implant procedure likely contributed to the difficulty in achieving numbness and may have triggered the burning sensation you experienced. Interestingly, research suggests a correlation between traumatic dental experiences and burning mouth syndrome. Your dentist’s thrush diagnosis seems questionable, especially given the persistent symptoms.
Can You File a Dental Malpractice Claim?
While not every dental implant failure is due to malpractice, your case’s circumstances raise concerns. Implant placement requires specialized training, and the combination of a misdiagnosed infection, a poorly fitted crown, and the eventual implant failure points to potential negligence.
Expert testimony from a qualified dentist is crucial to building a strong case. However, dental malpractice cases often result in limited compensation.
Given the challenges of pursuing a full refund or legal action, you might consider focusing on recovering costs related to crown placement and thrush misdiagnosis. Seeking advice from a legal professional can provide more specific guidance based on the details of your case.
Reporting the dentist to the dental board or insurance provider could also motivate a settlement.
Why Did Your Dental Implant Fail?
It’s unclear if the implant was loose before the crown fell off. A loose dental implant is often a symptom of infection. The excessive pain during crown placement suggests potential overtightening, which could have damaged the implant-bone interface and contributed to its failure.
Chandler, Arizona, dentists Dr. William Walden and Dr. Tyrel Beavers sponsor this post. Read how they strive to give patients some of the best dental care in Chandler.