How do I pursue a compensation claim for a wrong tooth extraction against my negligent dentist?
To pursue a compensation claim for a wrong tooth extraction against your dentist you should contact a dental negligence claims solicitor at the first possible moment. Dental negligence claims can be complex due to the difficult nature of establishing that a dental professional was indeed negligent, so the assistance of a solicitor is always necessary. After you inform a solicitor of the situation in which the incorrect tooth was extracted, the pain and suffering this caused and the subsequent affect it has had on your life, your solicitor will be able to assess the viability of your claim and advise you on all of your options. If it can be determined on the “balance of probabilities” that the extraction of the wrong tooth that you experienced could have been avoided in different circumstances, your solicitor may agree to proceed with your claim.
Your compensation claim for a wrong tooth extraction will be calculated based on numerous factors. The solicitors involved in negotiating the amount of compensation that you should be entitled to will first obtain a base value from The Book of Quantum — a publication that contains claim values for various injuries based on their seriousness and long-term impact. This value will then be adjusted to take into consideration your age, sex, general state of dental health before the extraction of the wrong tooth, the pain and suffering you endured and the impact it has had on your quality of life. This impact will take into account both the financial and psychological effects of your tooth extraction, which is covered by the areas of personal injury claim known as special damages and general damages.
Age and sex are a factor when it comes to calculating the value of your claim for when the incorrect tooth was extracted because such an injury is likely to affect a young woman differently than how it would affect an older man who has sustained an identical injury. A younger woman will have to live with this injury for a longer amount of time. Furthermore, if the tooth was located in a noticeable area, the loss of this tooth may have a drastic effect on her appearance and thus affect her confidence. If you have incurred any considerable costs or financial losses because of the wrong tooth extraction — such as medical expenses or being unable to work due to pain — then special damages will compensate you for this. You should also be able to claim for the costs of any future dental procedures that will be necessary to remedy the extraction of the wrong tooth.
General damages will compensate you for any of the non-financial effects this tooth loss has had on your life, such as the pain you endured — and may endure in future as a result of necessary dental treatment – and any diagnosable psychological injury you have suffered resultantly. Your solicitor will be able to provide you with further information about how your particular claim may be calculated and what areas of personal injury claim will be relevant to you.
The information provided here about how best to pursue a compensation claim for a wrong tooth extraction is merely general advice. It is not a substitute for the professional legal advice you will be able to obtain from a solicitor who has been informed about your situation. Therefore it is advisable that you discuss your claim with a solicitor at the soonest possible opportunity.