Due to increased affordability, cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth whitening, or bridgework have become increasingly popular. Certain procedures such as orthodontic work might be performed by the NHS if there is an underlying health issue. However, generally cosmetic dental procedures will be performed at a private practice.

Claims for cosmetic dentistry procedures are usually due to misdiagnosis or poor treatment. If less extensive treatment is recommended than what is truly needed, a more severe health issue might be left untreated. Poor ability during surgery can lead to pain, a long-lasting negative impact or trauma.

If you believe you’ve suffered as a result of an inadequate diagnosis or surgery, we are here to help. Call First Personal Injury on 0800 808 9740 or contact us online where we will assess your right to claim.

Types of Cosmetic Dentistry Claims

Cosmetic Dentistry usually attempts to improve the appearance of the gums, teeth or bite position by enhancing your colour, position, alignment or overall smile. However, if there is a misdiagnosis or the surgery is carried out negligently a claim can be made.

Below are some of the most common types of cosmetic dentistry which can result in claims being made:

Veneers

To apply veneers, there needs to be some removal of enamel from the teeth which can make the teeth feel very sensitive for roughly three to six months after the treatment. However, if this sensitivity continues after six months, there may have been an issue during surgery. The teeth might become damaged during the enamel removal process and if veneers are fitted very badly this could alter the position of the jaw’s bite. Some other issues which might occur in relation to the application of veneers include dental nerve damage, the veneer being left to overhang, the loosening of dental cement or an infection. All of these issues could lead to sensitivity, pain when eating, swelling or increased teeth grinding.

Gum contouring

Gum contouring removes any excess gum tissue which is covering a tooth to improve the general appearance of that area of the mouth. This will usually be performed with a scalpel or a laser which removes the excess tissue to reshape the gum and change the visibility of the surface area of the tooth. Such a procedure is usually performed under local anaesthetic. Other gum-related procedures include gum grafts where tissue is taken from the roof of the mouth and stitched into areas where the gums are thin and sensitive. While most patients do not experience issues with these procedures, if you have suffered pain or an issue such as too much gum being removed, you may be entitled to compensation.

Teeth whitening

Teeth whitening improves the colour of your teeth and helps to remove stains. This is one of the more common cosmetic dental procedures but if done poorly, it can weaken tooth enamel leading to increased sensitivity and decay.

Crown and bridgework

Food can get trapped underneath crowns and bridges that are loose, leading to infection or decay. If there is a misdiagnosis and bridges are placed upon teeth that are unsuitable for this procedure, this could also lead to damage and decay of healthy teeth. Your dentist has a duty of care to ensure that you do not undergo unnecessary or unsuitable procedures which could actually worsen any issues you are currently experiencing.

Orthodontic

Orthodontic work, such as train-track braces or clear aligners (a popular type being Invisalign), helps to straighten teeth while closing gaps and fixing the position of the bite. They can be fixed to either the upper jaw or lower jaw, or both depending upon the extent of the treatment needed. The timeframe of treatment for orthodontic work can vary greatly depending upon the extent of the desired results. However, for private practice orthodontic work, treatment will normally last up to or end before eighteen months.

Generally, patients are happy with the results of this cosmetic procedure but sometimes the outcome is not what they had hoped. Perhaps they had been given negligent advice or they had not been given proper mouth and jaw examinations prior to beginning treatment, which has resulted in complications. If braces are not fitted or removed properly this could also cause damage to the gums and teeth, increasing sensitivity, pain or even causing extreme gum recession. These instances would all be examples of dental negligence.

When does Cosmetic Dentistry become Clinical Negligence?

Every cosmetic procedure is unique but if you have received poor advice which has resulted in damage to your jaw, gums, mouth or teeth you may be entitled to compensation. For instance, you might have been left with:

• increased sensitivity or long-lasting pain
• damage to the teeth
• infection
• gum recession
• a change in the alignment to your bite

If you believe that poor advice or a botched surgery has resulted in a negative and avoidable impact on your overall health or appearance, please contact First Personal Injury.

As with other types of medical negligence compensation cases, with cosmetic dentistry claims, it is possible to claim financial losses if you have experienced negligent advice or treatment. This includes a loss of earnings if you have been unable to work. You may also be able to claim back the cost of any necessary corrective surgery. As each surgery is individual, an assessment for owed compensation will be decided by a dental specialist solicitor.

Making Cosmetic Dentistry Claims with First Personal Injury

If you have suffered a personal injury, you may be entitled to receive compensation. First Personal Injury solicitors are available to assist you and help win any compensation that you deserve.

At First Personal Injury, we work with both families and individuals across England and Wales. Leading our clients on their legal journey, we help them claim compensation after an accident or injury. Contact our specialist team to begin the process, either by phone on 0800 808 9740 or through our online form.