The Distracted Dentist

John came to Irvings after having post-operative complications following a dental procedure. It all started when he visited his dentist with tooth pain.

His dentist was very distracted during his visit, taking multiple personal phone calls about a house sale. She even complained to John about having wrist pain and didn’t ask for a colleague’s assistance with the exam or the procedure that was needed to relieve the pain; a lower left tooth extraction.

Before any procedure, a dentist would normally tell you the possibly complications or side effects of it and you could then make an informed decision about whether or not you wanted the procedure. This would be your informed consent. Due to her distraction, the dentist failed to inform John of the possible post-operative complications and went ahead with the extraction; without informed consent. After the extraction John suffered from numbness to his lip and occasional drooling. That is when he called Irvings.

We put forth a claim to the dentist’s insurers for dental negligence. They did not admit liability but did put forth a settlement offer, which we negotiated up to £16,500. John accepted the settlement and was happy with the resolution of the case.

If you’ve suffered from dental or medical negligence, give us a call to discuss your possible claim at 0800 954 0243.

Heather Green
Associate, Irvings Law