Dental Filling Compensation Claims

If you have suffered physically or emotionally due to a botched dental filling that was caused by negligence on the part of your dentist, our team of expert solicitors can help you to claim the compensation you deserve.

We understand the level of distress you are likely to have experienced due to botched dental work, and we will do our utmost to make the dental filling claims process as smooth-running and stress-free as possible.

To date, our team has recovered more than £4 million in compensation for our clients, helping them to get their lives back on track after suffering due to the negligence of a surgeon or dentist.

THE CLAIMS PROCESS EXPLAINED

Contact Us Today

Get in touch with us today to discuss your claim with a legal expert by calling INSERT PHONE NUMBER or request a callback from the team using our online enquiry form. We handle cases on a no win, no fee basis.

Why Choose Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors?

We were the first legal practice in England and Wales to focus on cosmetic surgery and beauty treatment negligence, which means we bring unrivalled experience, knowledge and dedication to every claim we handle. We have:

• More than 15 years’ experience in our field
• A 95% success rate for all cases pursued after obtaining medical evidence
• Secured £4 million in compensation for our clients to date
• Headed by respected legal expert Russell Sutton, our team of solicitors will strive to secure the outcome you deserve for your dental filling compensation claim.

Take a look at our testimonials from previous clients.

How Long Will the Claims Process Take?

Every case we handle is unique, which means we treat all claims differently to ensure we can offer a bespoke, personalised service for all of our clients. This means there is no standard claims process time limit.

Your dedicated solicitor will be on hand to guide you throughout the entire process from start to finish, offering continual support and guidance every step of the way.

See our full claims process here.

What Are the Signs That My Dental Filling Procedure Has Gone Wrong?

We have 15 years’ experience in helping our patients to make a claim following botched dental work that has left them in severe discomfort. All dental professionals have a duty of care to protect their patients, but we are on hand to support those who have not been afforded this level of care.

The team at Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors has dealt with an increasing number of dental negligence cases over the years. Some of the most common indications that a dental filling procedure has gone wrong include:

• Your dentist filled the wrong tooth
• Persistent, extremely sensitive teeth after the anaesthetic has worn off
• Failure to clean the cavity adequately, resulting in infection
• Extreme discomfort following the procedure

How Can We Help?

With a 95% success rate in all cosmetic surgery and dental negligence cases we have taken on after obtaining medical evidence, we are well placed to help you succeed with your claim on a no win, no fee basis.

We understand that claiming compensation can seem like a hassle that you just do not need, particularly if you are suffering physically or psychologically. However, our understanding of this area of the law and the claims process means we will take the stress out of your situation and put you in the best possible position to recover the compensation you deserve.

FAQs about dental negligence claims

What is a dental filling?

Dental fillings serve as a restorative solution for teeth affected by decay or damage. Typically, the procedure is performed without complications; however, poor execution by a dentist may result in various problems.

Generally, there are two types of fillings: silver amalgam (a mixture of metals) and white fillings. White fillings are usually not offered on the NHS for adults, so those who prefer this option must seek private dental treatment.

The silver amalgam filling procedure typically involves administering a local anaesthetic to ensure the patient remains comfortable and pain-free. The decayed tooth is then cleaned of decay and bacteria, often using a drill, before the filling material is inserted into the cavity.

In contrast, white fillings involve a slightly different process and may carry increased risks if not performed to a high standard by the dentist.

What causes a failed filling?

Several factors can contribute to a filling failure. It may be due to inadequate initial treatment, or because an alternative treatment, such as a crown, would have been more appropriate. Another cause of filling failure could be the insufficient treatment of the original decay by the dentist before placing the filling. Dentists should remove all decay and clean the area before inserting a filling; failure to do so may result in future complications. Also, sometimes the filling is placed deeper than is necessary and this can lead to pain and the need for root canal treatment or even the loss of the tooth.

Modern fillings are designed to be long-lasting, but they may require replacement every seven to 10 years.

If you believe that your filling failure is a result of improper procedure by your dentist or that the chosen treatment was inappropriate, and you have suffered injury as a consequence, you might be eligible to pursue compensation for dental negligence.

What are the risks associated with fillings?

Although most dental fillings are performed without complications, there can be occasional issues related to this type of treatment. Some potential risks and complications associated with dental fillings include:

1. Injuries to the mouth during the procedure
2. Nerve damage caused by the treatment
3. Blood vessel injury during the procedure
4. Decay spreading around the filling
5. Damage to the internal structure of the tooth leading to the need for root canal treatment

If you have encountered complications after receiving a filling and believe your dentist is responsible, you may be eligible to pursue a dental negligence compensation claim, depending on the circumstances.

Can I make a dental negligence claim on behalf of a child?

Yes, a parent or legal guardian can initiate a dental negligence claim on behalf of a child under 18 years of age. The time limit for such claims is extended, allowing claims to be filed until the child's 21st birthday.

Can I claim if the dental professional responsible has retired?

Yes, dental negligence claims can still be pursued even if the dental professional involved has retired, as their indemnity insurance should cover past incidents of negligence.

What if I am partially responsible for my dental injury?

If you are found to be partially responsible for your injury, you may still be entitled to compensation. In such cases, the compensation awarded may be reduced proportionately to reflect your share of responsibility.

How long do dental negligence claims take to resolve?

The duration of dental negligence claims can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the case and the willingness of the parties to reach a settlement. Some claims may be resolved within a few months, while more complex cases could take several years to reach a conclusion.

What can I claim for if something goes wrong with my white filling dental treatment?

While white fillings are generally a standard aspect of dental care, there are instances when the procedure might not go as expected. Dental negligence can lead to complications, which may give rise to a dental negligence claim:

• Inadequate cleaning of the tooth cavity, leaving decay present in the tooth and increasing the risk of pain and infection
• Poor application of the white filling, resulting in gaps that can harbour decay, cause pain, lead to tooth fractures, or necessitate early filling replacement
• Placing the filling too deep

How do I know there is a problem with my filling?

Several indications may suggest that a filling has not been properly placed or that the procedure was not performed to a high standard. While these signs do not always point to dental negligence, it is essential to address them and consult a dentist promptly if any are experienced:

1. Persistent aches or pains lasting more than a few days following the filling procedure
2. The filling dislodging or not filling the entire cavity
3. Irritation of the gums or teeth surrounding the filled tooth for an extended period after the procedure
4. An improperly aligned bite
5. Further cracking or degradation of the tooth