Dental malpractice, also known as dental negligence, occurs when a dentist fails to provide the appropriate standard of care to a patient, resulting in harm or injury. This can manifest in various forms, including improper treatment, incorrect diagnosis, or failure to provide proper advice. If a patient believes they have suffered harm due to the negligence of their dentist, they may consider legal action to seek compensation for their damages. Consulting with an experienced legal professional can help determine the viability of a dental malpractice case and the appropriate course of action.
Dental malpractice cases can be complex and often require expert testimony to establish the appropriate standard of care and whether it was breached. The burden of proof lies with the patient to demonstrate that the dentist's negligence directly caused their injuries or damages. Damages in dental malpractice cases may include compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost income, and emotional distress.