Protecting Patients Harmed by Negligent Dentists and Oral Surgeons
Dental treatment is supposed to improve your health, function, and appearance. Patients trust dentists, orthodontists, and oral surgeons with their well-being. But when dental professionals make mistakes — whether in diagnosis, treatment, or surgery — the results can be painful, permanent, and costly.
At The C. Paul Law Firm P.C., we represent patients in [City] and across New York harmed by dental malpractice. From nerve injuries to surgical errors, we fight for accountability and fair compensation for victims of negligent dental care.
Call today for a free consultation: (212) 551-PAUL
Common Types of Dental Malpractice
| Error Type | Example | Potential Harm |
| Nerve Damage | Injury to nerves during extractions or implants | Permanent numbness, chronic pain |
| Surgical Errors | Mistakes in wisdom tooth removal or jaw surgery | Infection, disfigurement |
| Misdiagnosis / Delay | Failing to detect oral cancer or serious conditions | Advanced disease, worsened outcome |
| Improper Anesthesia Use | Overdose, allergic reaction, or failure to monitor | Brain injury, death |
| Prosthetic/Implant Errors | Poor placement of crowns, bridges, or implants | Bone loss, infection |
| Orthodontic Negligence | Improper braces or alignment care | Jaw pain, bite problems |
Causes of Dental Negligence
- Inadequate training or lack of specialization
- Poor surgical planning or technique
- Failure to order imaging or follow-up tests
- Unsanitary instruments or unsafe practices
- Miscommunication between dental staff and patients
- Rushing procedures due to high patient volume
Legal Considerations in Dental Malpractice Cases
To prove dental malpractice, patients must show:
- A dentist-patient relationship existed.
- The dentist failed to meet the accepted standard of dental care.
- This failure caused injury or worsened a condition.
- The patient suffered measurable damages (medical, financial, or emotional).
Dental offices and surgical centers may also be liable for systemic negligence such as poor sanitation or improper supervision.
Compensation for Victims of Dental Malpractice
If dental negligence caused harm, victims may recover damages for:
- Corrective or reconstructive dental treatment
- Medical or surgical care for injuries
- Pain and suffering
- Disfigurement or permanent nerve damage
- Emotional distress
- Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
Frequently Asked Questions
Is every bad dental result malpractice?
No. Malpractice occurs when negligence — not just dissatisfaction — causes harm or unnecessary injury.
Can I sue for nerve damage after oral surgery?
Yes. Permanent nerve injury is one of the most common dental malpractice claims.
What if oral cancer was missed by my dentist?
Failure to diagnose oral cancer may be malpractice if a reasonably skilled dentist would have detected it.
How long do I have to file a dental malpractice claim in New York?
Generally 2.5 years from the malpractice date, though exceptions may apply.
Serving [City] and the Greater New York Area
We represent patients harmed by dental malpractice in [City], Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and throughout New York.