When you visit a dentist in Stockport, whether for routine check-ups or more complex treatment, you are entitled to expect safe and professional care. In most cases, dentists provide effective treatment and help their patients maintain excellent oral health. However, mistakes do happen, and when they fall below the standard of care expected, the result can be dental negligence.
Dental negligence can lead to pain, long-term complications, and financial losses linked to corrective treatment. If you have suffered harm after visiting a dentist in Stockport, you may be wondering whether you can sue your dentist and what steps are involved in making a claim.
What is dental negligence?
Dental negligence occurs when a dentist or dental professional fails in their duty of care, and this failure directly causes injury or worsens an existing condition. It is not enough for treatment to have been unsuccessful; negligence requires evidence that the care provided fell below what a reasonably competent dentist would have delivered in the same situation.
Examples of dental negligence in Stockport include:
- Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of dental conditions such as oral cancer, abscesses, or gum disease
- Extraction of the wrong tooth or unnecessary removal of healthy teeth
- Nerve damage caused during surgery or root canal procedures
- Incorrect fitting of crowns, bridges, or implants leading to ongoing pain or further treatment
- Failure to obtain proper consent before carrying out dental procedures
- Poor infection control causing preventable illness
In each of these situations, patients may experience avoidable pain, the need for corrective treatment, or long-term health consequences.
The duty of care owed by dentists
All dentists, whether working for the NHS or in private practices in Stockport, owe patients a duty of care. This means they must provide treatment in line with accepted medical standards. Should the dentist violate this duty and cause harm to the patient, they could face negligence liability.
It is important to note that not all complications are the result of negligence. For example, some treatments carry risks even when performed correctly. A claim can only succeed where the level of care was below acceptable standards and directly caused harm.
Proving a dental negligence claim
Dental negligence claims often require strong evidence. To make a successful claim, you must prove two things:
- That the treatment you received fell below the standard expected of a competent dentist
- That this failing caused injury, additional pain, or avoidable financial loss
Evidence that may support your case includes:
- Dental records and X-rays from your treatment
- Independent expert reports from other dental professionals
- Photographs showing damage or poor results
- Records of additional treatment needed to correct the problem
- Testimony from family members about the impact on your daily life
A solicitor can help gather and present this evidence to demonstrate negligence and secure compensation.
Injuries caused by dental negligence
The effects of dental negligence can be both physical and emotional. Examples of harm caused include:
- Chronic pain in the jaw, gums, or teeth
- Difficulty eating, speaking, or carrying out daily activities
- Nerve injuries leading to permanent numbness or tingling
- Infections requiring antibiotics or hospital treatment
- Emotional distress caused by visible damage or loss of confidence
In some cases, patients may also suffer financial harm by paying for unnecessary treatment or having to fund corrective procedures.
How much compensation can you receive?
The value of a dental negligence claim depends on the severity of the injury and the financial and emotional impact it has had. Factors considered include:
- The level of pain and suffering caused by negligence
- The cost of corrective treatment or future dental care
- Loss of income if you were unable to work due to your injury
- The impact on your appearance, confidence, and quality of life
- Long-term health complications that require ongoing management
Every case is unique, and a solicitor can provide a clearer picture of the likely compensation once your circumstances have been assessed.
Time limits for bringing a claim
In most cases, you have three years to file a claim from the date of the careless treatment or from the moment you learnt about the harm. For children, the three-year period begins on their 18th birthday.
It is always advisable to seek legal advice as soon as possible, as evidence such as dental records and witness accounts is easier to obtain while events are still recent.
The claims process
The process of making a dental negligence claim in Stockport usually involves:
- Initial consultation – A solicitor reviews your case and advises whether you have grounds for a claim
- Evidence gathering – Collecting dental records, photographs, and expert reports
- Letter of claim – Your solicitor contacts the dentist or practice, outlining the allegations of negligence
- Response – The dentist or their insurer may admit liability or dispute the claim
- Negotiation – Efforts are made to agree on a fair settlement
- Court action – If settlement is not reached, the case may proceed to court for a decision
While some claims do go to trial, many are settled once strong evidence has been presented.
Local context: dental treatment in Stockport
Stockport has a mixture of NHS and private dental practices, many of which are busy with high patient demand. While most care is delivered safely, mistakes can happen when staff are under pressure or procedures are rushed. Patients in Stockport who experience negligent treatment should know that they have legal options to hold dental professionals accountable.
FAQs
Can I sue my dentist if I am unhappy with the results of my treatment?
Not necessarily. To make a claim, you must show that your dentist’s care fell below accepted standards and caused you harm. Poor cosmetic results alone may not be enough unless they are the result of negligent work.
What if my treatment was carried out by an NHS dentist?
You can bring a claim whether your treatment was provided by an NHS or private dentist. Although different insurers or organisations typically handle the claim, the process and your rights remain the same.
Speak to Marley Solicitors about dental negligence in Stockport
If you have suffered pain, injury, or financial loss because of negligent dental treatment in Stockport, you do not have to deal with the consequences alone. Marley Solicitors can provide expert advice, assess the strength of your case, and guide you through the claims process with clarity and care.
We have experience helping patients across Stockport and Greater Manchester secure compensation after negligent dental care. By working with us, you can take the first step towards recovery and ensure your voice is heard.
Contact Marley Solicitors today to discuss your dental negligence claim in confidence and find out how we can support you in seeking compensation after treatment in Stockport.
