If you have experienced an injury following a tooth extraction in Wallsend, you could be entitled to compensation. Tooth extractions are common dental procedures performed regularly in both NHS and private practices. Most extractions are carried out without problems, but unfortunately, mistakes and negligence can sometimes lead to serious injury or complications. If you or a loved one have been affected by dental negligence during a tooth extraction, Marley Solicitors can help you understand your rights and guide you through making a claim for compensation.
Understanding tooth extraction injury claims
A tooth extraction injury claim falls under the broader category of dental negligence claims. Negligence occurs when a dental professional fails to provide care that meets the expected standards, causing avoidable harm to the patient. In the case of tooth extraction injuries, this can involve errors made during the removal of the tooth, inadequate aftercare advice, or failure to manage complications appropriately.
In Wallsend, tooth extractions are commonly carried out by dentists associated with local NHS practices such as those under the Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, as well as private clinics throughout the North Tyneside area. Injuries during these procedures can happen regardless of the type of practice, and we are experienced in handling claims across the full spectrum of dental service providers.
Common causes of tooth extraction injuries in Wallsend
Tooth extractions involve removing a damaged or problematic tooth, which sometimes requires surgery. Despite careful technique, complications can arise, especially when mistakes or lapses in care occur. Some typical causes of injury during or after a tooth extraction include:
- Nerve damage: The lower jaw contains several nerves that can be damaged if the extraction is not carefully performed. This can result in numbness, tingling, or loss of feeling in parts of the mouth, chin, or lips. This type of injury may be temporary or permanent depending on the severity.
- Infection: Post-extraction infection can develop if the wound is not properly cleaned or if aftercare instructions are not followed or provided. Infections can cause pain, swelling, and, in rare cases, more serious health risks.
- Dry socket (alveolar osteitis): This painful condition happens when the protective blood clot in the extraction site is lost prematurely, exposing bone and nerves. Dry socket can cause severe pain and delay healing.
- Excessive bleeding: Failure to control bleeding during and after the extraction can lead to further complications, particularly if the patient has an underlying bleeding disorder or is on medication that affects clotting.
- Damage to adjacent teeth or soft tissues: Accidental damage to surrounding teeth, gums, or other oral tissues may happen during extraction.
- Incomplete extraction: Sometimes part of the tooth or root may be left behind, which can cause ongoing pain and infection if not detected and treated promptly.
- Failure to diagnose pre-existing conditions: For example, if a dentist fails to identify cysts or bone infections that affect the extraction, this can result in serious complications.
- Inadequate aftercare instructions: Patients need clear guidance on how to care for the extraction site to prevent problems. Without this, complications such as infection or dry socket are more likely.
If any of these issues have caused you harm, you might have grounds to pursue a tooth extraction injury claim.
How Marley Solicitors can support your claim in Wallsend
Marley Solicitors specialises in dental negligence and personal injury claims, and they have extensive experience assisting clients in Wallsend and the surrounding North Tyneside region. We know the local healthcare environment well, including NHS dental services accessible through GP surgeries in Wallsend and nearby hospitals managed by the Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.
Our team works closely with medical and dental experts who provide independent assessments of your injury and treatment records. This helps build a strong case to demonstrate negligence and calculate fair compensation. We guide you through every step of the claim process, making what can be a stressful experience much easier.
We operate a no win, no fee service, so you can proceed without worrying about upfront legal costs. If your claim is unsuccessful, you pay nothing.
What compensation can you claim for a tooth extraction injury?
The amount of compensation awarded in tooth extraction injury claims depends on several factors, including the severity and permanence of the injury, how it affects your daily life, and any financial losses incurred. Compensation can cover:
- General damages: For physical pain, emotional suffering, and reduced quality of life resulting from the injury.
- Special damages: These reimburse expenses related to the injury, such as private medical treatment costs, travel to medical appointments, prescription charges, and loss of earnings if you were unable to work.
- Future care and support costs: If the injury causes long-term problems, compensation may include funds for ongoing medical care or assistance.
- Additional losses: For example, costs related to counselling or therapy if you experience psychological effects following your injury.
Marley Solicitors will assess all these factors carefully to help you secure the maximum compensation you are entitled to.
What to do if you have suffered a tooth extraction injury in Wallsend
Taking prompt and appropriate action after a suspected dental injury is crucial to protect your health and strengthen your claim. If you experience severe pain, numbness, infection symptoms, or other complications following a tooth extraction, you should:
- Seek immediate medical or dental care. Wallsend residents can access dental services through NHS clinics or local GPs, including urgent care options provided by the Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.
- Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, treatments, and communications with your dentist or healthcare providers.
- Preserve all documents such as dental records, referral letters, prescriptions, and any receipts for private treatment.
- Avoid ignoring symptoms or delaying treatment, as this may worsen your condition or affect your ability to claim.
- Contact Marley Solicitors for a free consultation. We will review your situation and advise you on the next steps, including whether you have a valid claim and how to best pursue it.
Why choose Marley Solicitors for your Wallsend claim?
Choosing the right legal representation is essential when making a tooth extraction injury claim. Marley Solicitors offers:
- A specialised team experienced in dental negligence claims
- Strong links with local healthcare providers and expert witnesses
- Transparent, client-centred advice throughout the process
- A no win, no fee service, reducing your financial risk
- Dedicated support to ensure your claim is handled efficiently and sensitively
We are committed to helping Wallsend residents achieve the compensation they deserve after suffering dental injuries that should never have happened.
FAQs
Can I claim for a tooth extraction injury in Wallsend?
Yes, if your injury was caused by negligence or substandard care during a tooth extraction, you can make a claim. Marley Solicitors offers a free consultation to review your case and help you understand your options.
How much compensation can I get for a tooth extraction injury?
Compensation varies depending on the severity of the injury and its impact on your life. Marley Solicitors will assess your specific circumstances to help you pursue the maximum possible award.
If you or a loved one have suffered a tooth extraction injury in Wallsend, do not hesitate to get in touch with Marley Solicitors today. Contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation and let our expert legal team support you in claiming the compensation you deserve.
