Dental malpractice is more common than you might think. This is because dental malpractice rarely results in further pain, treatment or the death of the patient. Nonetheless, dentists are just as capable of engaging in malpractice as are medical physicians. Many times, dental malpractice occurs simply because the dentist wishes to make more money.
Performing Unnecessary Procedures
The most obvious type of dental malpractice is when a dentist performs unnecessary procedures on the patient. Unnecessary procedures can take the form of procedures that do not need to be done, do not need to be done at the time or which are solely cosmetic and the patient is not informed of such. A prime example of this type of malpractice is when a physician recommends that a filling or crown be replaced that is in perfect shape and causing the patient no pain. In this instance, the dentist is merely trying to rack up a higher dental bill rather than truly treat the patient.
Using Expensive Equipment and Materials
Another, often overlooked, type of dental malpractice is when the dentist uses the most expensive tools and materials possible, without asking the patient about his preference. An example of this is when the dentist uses the more expensive white rather than gold or silver filling for cavities without checking to make sure that the extra expense is okay with the patient. If less expensive options exist but were not offered to a patient, it is a sign that malpractice might have occurred.
Requiring Unnecessary Checkups
While a good dentist should always check the status of a patient’s teeth prior to beginning a procedure, this does not mean that he must perform a full examination every time the patient visits the office. A full dental examination can include cleanings, bite plates and X-Rays, some of which may or may not be related to the reason for the patient’s visit. For example, if a patient is seeking teeth whitening molds there is no need for the patient to undergo X-Rays prior to the molds being made. Requiring X-Rays prior to making the molds is malpractice and only intended to fill a dentist’s pocket.
Requiring Cosmetic Procedures
While many dental procedures are cosmetic, there are some that are unnecessary depending on the patient’s dental health. A dentist that recommends purely cosmetic procedures under the guise of their being necessary is committing malpractice.
Getting Legal Help
If you believe that you have been injured by dental malpractice, seek legal representation. Dental malpractice is a commonly overlooked type of malpractice, but one which may compensate a patient that has suffered damages from its occurrence.
