Dental Malpractice Claims: What to Know

When a dentist, oral surgeon, or orthodontist's care may cross into malpractice

Dental malpractice is a commonly overlooked category -- many people don't realize the same general malpractice standard applies to dentists, oral surgeons, endodontists, and orthodontists as it does to physicians.

• Extraction errors -- wrong tooth pulled, nerve damage during extraction, or failure to properly address infection
• Anesthesia mistakes -- similar to medical anesthesia errors, involving dosing or monitoring during sedation dentistry
• Missed oral cancer or infection signs -- failing to identify or refer out warning signs during a routine exam
• Root canal and endodontic errors -- perforations, missed canals, or complications from improper technique
• Orthodontic negligence -- treatment that causes lasting damage to teeth, gums, or jaw structure beyond expected risk
• Implant complications -- placement errors that damage nerves, sinuses, or surrounding structures

As with medical malpractice, a bad outcome alone -- like a failed implant or a lingering complication -- isn't automatically proof of malpractice. The same standard-of-care framework applies: did the provider's care fall below what a reasonably competent dentist would have done, and did that failure cause the harm. Dental malpractice claims typically require a qualified dental expert, similar to how medical claims require a medical expert. A licensed attorney can help you understand whether your situation may qualify.

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