It goes without saying that no person truly loves going to the dentist. However, appropriate dental care is a necessity. Like all medical professionals, dentists in Pennsylvania are required to treat their patients with a certain standard of care. If negligent dental care results in injuries to a patient, dentists could face financial responsibility through a successful medical malpractice claim.
Dental procedure gone wrong
In another state, a medical malpractice lawsuit was filed by a dental patient who allegedly ended up in the hospital after a dental procedure. According to the lawsuit, the plaintiff underwent a procedure to surgically remove his wisdom teeth. The lawsuit claimed the initial X-ray of the patient’s jaw showed a soft tissue mass and a biopsy was needed. Allegedly, the dentist tried to remove the mass without obtaining consent or notifying the patient of the risks.
Plaintiff receives substantial award
The lawsuit alleged that the dentist encountered bleeding while attempting to remove the mass but continued with the procedure anyway. It was not necessary to remove the entire mass for a biopsy, the lawsuit claimed. Due to the dentist’s alleged negligence, the plaintiff claimed to have suffered a massive hemorrhage, significant blood-loss and required hospitalization. Reportedly, the jury sided with the plaintiff and awarded him $2.75 million.
Every single day, thousands of dental and medical patients place their lives in the hands of trusted dentists, doctors and other health care providers. Unfortunately, any missed step or error made by a health care professional can result in catastrophic injuries to the patient. Those in Pennsylvania who have been affected by medical malpractice have options available to ease their pain and suffering. By speaking with an attorney and filing a claim, victims and families could obtain much-needed and deserved compensation.