Dental patient suffers severe burn to mouth during extraction

Ms W was undergoing extraction of her wisdom teeth and was anaesthetised. She sustained a severe burn to the side of her mouth and lips, which was later explained as being caused by overheating of the drill.

Ms W’s injuries worsened and a scar appeared on the corner of her mouth. Following a formal complaint Ms W underwent some remedial surgery, however her scarring continued to be apparent and she was informed she would need further surgical repair to her mouth.

Ms W was 26 years old at the time of the surgery, and was informed there was a very real possibility of being scarred for life near her mouth.

Jonathan Herbert, specialist clinical negligence lawyer, was instructed to bring a claim on Ms W’s behalf.  A plastic surgery report was obtained.

The defendant denied liability stating they could not have taken any action to prevent the drill from overheating, which had been caused by an issue with the drill itself.  The defendant argued it was not responsible for this fault. A dental expert report was therefore obtained.

Despite the fact liability remained in dispute, Jonathan was able to successfully settle the claim out of court for £22,000.

Jonathan specialises in dental negligence cases.  If you would like to ask Jonathan a question about a potential case, or if you have a general query about any personal injury, contact Jonathan Herbert at Thomson Snell & Passmore solicitors on 01892 701226 in confidence.